Lily Romao

Lily Marie Tarantino Romao
August 14, 1962 - September 20, 2024
Heaven received another angel on September 20, 2024, when Lily Marie Tarantino Romao peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones.
Lily was born and raised in San Diego's Little Italy and was a lover of food, fashion, and family, an authentic Sicilian through and through. Lily was the daughter of the late Frank & Agnes (Balistreri) Tarantino. She was the loving wife of the late Artemio Romao, Sr., and her beloved daughter, Anna Marie Romao. Lily is survived by her son Artemio (AJ) Romao, her brother Jack Tarantino, his husband, Michael Hauser, and Lily's Uncle, Joe Balistreri. She is also survived by her cherished cousins Fran, MaryJo, Maria, Angel, and her many other beloved cousins, and her dearest lifelong girlfriends.
Lily, or Duci as she was known by all who loved her, was one of a kind. A true Leo, she was strong, determined, opinionated, and fiercely loyal. She was a lifelong member of Our Lady of The Rosary Church and was a member of the sodality's Madonna Addolorata society.
Lily worked for several companies, including Jad Ortho and Neiman Marcus, before establishing herself as an entrepreneur who owned and operated Ms. Lily's Daycare for 30 years. There, she cared for many families' children. Her Sicilian approach to her 'kids' made her a one-of-a-kind caretaker. She leaves behind a community of children who remember her fondly and often share stories of their time with Ms. Lily.
Let's remember the joy she brought and the love she shared and carry that with us always. Friends and family are welcome to attend the service on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 9 AM at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 1668 State St, San Diego, CA 92101. A reception in the church hall will follow the mass.
In place of flowers, please donate to St. Jude's https://www.stjude.org/donate