Johanna M. Pungello

Johanna M. Pungello of Hyde Park, NY went home to the Lord surrounded by her loving family and friends on January 22, 2025 at Westchester Medical Center. Johanna was a beloved wife, loving sister, devoted cousin, aunt and friend.
She was the eldest of 4 children born to Robert and Jean (Heissler) Moran on January 22, 1954 in the Bronx, NY. Johanna was predeceased by her parents as well her sister Theresa Abate. Who she greatly missed every single day. She is survived at home by husband of 39 years Paul along with her brother Robert (Jane) who will miss her immensely. Not to mention all the many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and colleagues who adored her and who she adored.
Despite the distance, she still loved being Robert's big sister. She would constantly call him to make sure he was taking care of himself. She always had his back.
On August3, 1985, she married Paul Pungello and was immediately embraced by his parents, brother, sister, aunts, uncles and cousins as one of their own. They even went so far giving her the responsibility of hosting our traditional Christmas Eve dinner. A feat she managed flawlessly for many years.
Johanna was a 1971 graduate of St Nicholas of Tolentine HS in the Bronx NY. She received her bachelor's degree from Dominican College Blauvelt, NY and her master's degree from Iona College in New Rochelle, NY. The latter, a testament to her fierce determination was a feat she accomplished while also working a full time job.
Johanna spent 30+ years as dedicated teacher and mentor to hundreds and hundreds boys and girls. First at Blessed Sacrament in NYC then St. Elizabeth's in Washington Heights, Good Counsel in White Plains and finally Arthur S May in Poughkeepsie. At each stop, the thing that mattered most to her was that she gives to each one of her students the foundation that would allow them to grow and become their best self. Nothing gave her more joy and put a smile on her face, than hearing from a former student who thanked her for being "their teacher" and what she meant to them. Finally, Johanna did not have colleagues. She had friends who over the years become more like family.
Johanna was the family gardener. It was her passion. Or as she would say, her therapy. She truly had a green thumb. She would nurture her plants, agonizing over wanting to get her soil mixture perfect. Many a time she would be called on to help a friend or relative with advice on how to bring a plant or flower back to life.
Johanna was an avid reader. Only it had to be non-fiction. Her husband was always amazed at her ability to be read several books at the same time. Her other hobby was knitting and crocheting. She so looked forward to the birth of each new grand niece and nephew. For this gave her the opportunity to make them their own special blanket.
Relatives and friends may call from 4pm to 8pm on Friday, February 14, 2025 at Sweets Funeral Home Inc., Route 9, Hyde Park NY 12538.
A memorial mass will be held at Regina Coeli Church on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 10am. 2 Harvey St. Hyde Park, NY 12538.
As an expression of sympathy memorial contributions can be sent to the charity Stand Up to Cancer, 10880 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90024 (www.standuptocancer.org).