Concetta Antonina Restifo

Concetta Antonina Restifo was born on June 12, 1928, in the beautiful hilltop town of Limina, Sicily, a place that shaped her soul and to which she remained devoted throughout her life. She was a proud daughter of Sicily, a land of tradition, strength, faith, and family.

A unique woman for her time, Concetta was sent to a special school and became a teacher, a rare and wonderful role in her small town. She carried that wisdom and love of learning throughout her life, always guiding her family with devotion and clarity.

She was courted from afar by her beloved Filippo Restifo, the man who would become her husband and soulmate. Their love story was one of enduring devotion and joy - a sacred bond that lasted a lifetime.

With courage and hope, Concetta immigrated to America aboard the Andrea Doria, arriving in New York and forever remembering the moment she saw the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of dreams fulfilled, and sacrifices honored.

She took immense pride in her family's immigrant legacy. Her uncle, Antonino Salimbene, affectionately known as Zio Nino, helped found Union Local 731 in New York City, a labor institution that still stands today. Her father and uncle were also among the immigrants who began the cherished tradition of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, a piece of American history she held close to her heart.

Concetta worked for over 25 years at Brooks Brothers, but her true life's work was her family. Her home was a haven, filled with food, music, laughter, stories, and unconditional love. She lived every day anchored in her Roman Catholic faith, praying multiple rosaries for anyone in need, and offering herself in quiet, generous service to others.

She loved being outdoors, traveling - especially to Aruba and her beloved Italy - reading, writing, sharing memories, and finding joy in life's simplest moments.

Until the very end, Concetta remained a storyteller, a teacher, and a guiding light. She was the embodiment of resilience, a woman who stood firm in her faith, overcame life's hardships with grace, and always gave glory to God. Even in her final days, she gently told her family, "I'm good," fighting with dignity and gratitude until her final breath.

She has now reunited with her beloved husband, Filippo, her eternal companion, in the peace of Heaven.

She leaves behind a family of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each a living reflection of her love, faith, and spirit. Her family was her greatest pride, her deepest joy, and her most beautiful legacy.

She is survived by her loving children: Gaetana Restifo-Stampone and her husband Nicola Stampone, Sebastian Restifo and his wife Elvira Restifo, and Josephine Rufa and her husband Vincent Rufa. Her cherished grandchildren: Maria Vanessa, Emanuele, Filippo, Laura, Andria, Christine, and Daniel. Her treasured great-grandchildren: Natalie, Vincent, Vanessa, and Milania.

She was predeceased by her beloved parents, Cateno Saglimbeni and Giuseppa Manuli, and her dear sister, Rosaria Saglimbeni, and brother-in-law, Antonino Campagna.

Her life was full of beauty, strength, and perseverance. She lived with unwavering love and deep faith. And though she lived nearly a century, it still does not feel like enough time. She will be missed beyond measure - and remembered fondly.

The family kindly asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in honor of Concetta's life of faith, family, and selfless love.