Catherine D'Ambra, born March 7, 1947, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, at the age of 78.
Catherine was an amazing friend, a loving mother, a devoted wife, and a caring grandmother whose warmth, kindness, and sweet laugh genuinely brightened the world around her. She had a gift for making people feel loved and welcomed, and her compassion left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
After many years living in New York building memories and a legacy, she made her home in Tampa, Florida, where she delighted in the sunshine, warm weather, and the simple joys of daily life with her son Nick nearby. She loved to travel with family and friends and was known to enjoy a lovely home cooked meal of eggplant parmigiana (that she made herself), a snack of chocolate covered jelly rings, a game of Bingo, a good hand of Pinochle, or a raucous round of Farkle with friends and family. Family was always at the center of Catherine's world, and she took immense pride in the lives and accomplishments of those she loved.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of over 35 years, Victor D'Ambra, and her sons, Kenneth Danielsen and Christopher Danielsen.
Catherine is survived by her three sons and their spouses: Philip and Stephanie Danielsen, Michael and Angela Danielsen, as well as Nick and Josh D'Ambra. She was a devoted and loving grandmother to Kaitlyn, Jesse, Jason, Rachel, Jaden, Samantha, Matthew, and Ariana, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She is also survived by her cherished sisters, Angela and Grace, and her dear friends including Diane, Mary, and Sue, whose friendship meant so much to her.
The family will receive friends and loved ones for funeral service on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 7:00–9:00 p.m. at Bryant Funeral Home, 411 Old Town Road,
East Setauket, NY 11733. Mass will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Gerard Majella Church, 300 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776 with burial to follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
To honor Catherine's memory, the family invites charitable donations to be made in her name to the
American Cancer Society, the
Alzheimer's Association, or the Humane Society.
Catherine will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her heart, generosity, and the light she brought into the lives of so many. May we all carry her memory forward with kindness and love.