Arlene (Cote) Pignataro

Arlene (Cote) Pignataro, 93, a lifelong Worcester resident passed away peacefully Sunday, “Mother’s Day” May 12th, 2024. 

Arlene was born in Worcester, the daughter of Francis and Alice Cote.  After high school, Arlene married the “love of her life”, Frank D. Pignataro Sr. They then began a 42-year life of family, faith, and devotion, raising their family until Frank left Arlene’s side in 1991.  She continued to lead her family as matriarch until now. Arlene worked as a nurses’ aide for the Umass-Memorial Healthcare until retiring. She previously worked for the David Clark Company. 

Arlene is survived by, her two sons, Frank D. Pignataro, Jr and his wife Patricia of West Barnstable, Vincent Pignataro and his wife Tina of Worcester; two grandsons she adored and who lovingly called her “Mime”, Mark and his wife Jennifer, James and his wife Tiffany; four great grandchildren, Dominic, Sophia, Vince, and Thomas; a brother Samuel Longbook, many nieces, nephews and extended family members. In addition to her parents and husband Frank, a brother, Norman Cote and sister, Theresa Blanchette predeceased her. 

 An accomplished seamstress, Arlene loved to sew, construct quilts and needlepoint items for family and friends. She enjoyed cooking and baking, flower gardening and swimming in the ocean. Arlene loved to entertain; holidays, special occasions and family dinners were always at her house. She was a dedicated mother who sacrificed for her family to help build a good life for them.    

A period of calling hours will be held Monday, May 20th from 9 am to 10:30 am in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St follow by a procession beginning at 10:45 am to St Anne’s Church, 130 Boston Turnpike Rd Shrewsbury, where her funeral Mass will be held at 11 am. She will be reunited in burial with her husband Frank in St Phillips Cemetery in Grafton. In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in her name can be made to the Southbridge Rehabilitation Center, 84 Chapin St, Southbridge, Ma 01550.