Judith Z. Festa

Family & friends are respectfully invited to attend visiting hours on Wednesday, February 22nd from 4 pm to 8 pm, in the Vertuccio Smith & Vazza Beechwood Home for Funerals, 262 Beach St., for Judith Z. (Zullo) Festa who died unexpectedly at her home in Fort Pierce, Florida. She was 70 years old. A funeral will be conducted from the funeral home on Thursday, February 23rd at 10 am, followed by a funeral Mass at 11:00 am in St. Anthony of Padua Church, 250 Revere St., Revere. Interment will be held privately.
Judi was born in Chelsea on December 9, 1952 to her late parents, Mario J. & Elena (Cianfrocca) Zullo, who she loved fiercely. She was born the oldest daughter of two, growing up in the Orient Heights section of East Boston, with her younger sister, Diane, who she cherished. She was educated in East Boston and is an alumna of Dedham High School Class of 1970. After High School, Judi enjoyed many talents and interests, and worked various jobs. On November 13, 1977, she married the love of her life and best friend, William R. "Chuck" Festa. The couple lived in Revere, then relocated to Peabody where they raised their two daughters, Alana & Giana. Judi managed Diane's Cleaners on Broadway in Revere, then later became a licensed Realtor. She worked for many years as a property manager for City Suites & Christopher Columbus Apartments in Boston's North End. Judi's most treasured love was her family. She was a devoted wife to her husband and mother to her daughters. She was extremely active and very present in their many activities. Judi especially cherished her time as the President of the Peabody High School Basketball & Cheerleader Boosters. She was everyone's "Cheer Mom," whether they were on the squad or not. Her years of dedication were ultimately recognized by the MIAA, one of her proudest moments. Judi's personality immediately captured the hearts of anyone she met. After her family, Judi's second passion was crafting masterpieces for those she loved. Her talents were limitless, and she was often referred to as the "Italian Martha Stewart." She and her husband retired to South Hutchinson Island, Florida about four years ago, where they enjoyed a new way of life and welcomed many new friends in a very short time.
Judi is the beloved wife of 45 years to William R. "Chuck" Festa of South Hutchinson Island, FL. Formerly of Peabody and Revere. The loving & proud mother of Alana F. Rikeman & husband, Joseph of Peabody & Giana Z. Festa & wife, Vanessa Spatafora of Winthrop. The cherished grandmother of Julian J. Rikeman of Peabody. The devoted daughter of the late Mario J. & Elena (Cianfrocca) Zullo. Treasured sister of Diane Zullo of Peabody. Special aunt of Ronald Baptista, Marissa Lemon, & Joseph Breda & grand aunt of Michael & Morgan Hatch. She is also lovingly survived by many lifelong friends and extended family both in Massachusetts & Florida. At the family's request, PLEASE OMIT FLOWERS! Judi loved children, to honor her, please consider donating in her memory to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, 133 Federal St., 2nd floor, Boston, MA 02110. For online guestbook & condolences please visit www.vazzafunerals.com