Lorenza Amato

Lorenza Amato, a matriarch and beacon of familial love, passed away on August 29, 2025, in Old Bridge, NJ, at the age of 90. Born on July 31, 1935, in the scenic town of Carini Palermo, Sicily, Lorenza was a woman whose life was defined by devotion, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to her family.
A nurturing mother, Lorenza is survived by her adoring children Maria DiRienzo (Michael), Pietro Amato (Bernadette), Salvatore Amato (Jennifer), and daughter-in-law Josephine Amato. She will forever be cherished and remembered as the proud Grandma "Nonna" to her beloved grandchildren Salvatore Marsella (Celine), Esterlaure Marsella, Antonino Amato (Jessica), Vito Amato (Lindsay), Lauren Filozof (Eric), Carlo Amato, Peter Amato, Lori Amato, Antonino Amato, and Carmelo Amato; and as the doting great-grandmother "Big Nonna" to Salvatore, Vincenza, Evangelina, Alessia, Luciano, Ariana, and Hayden. Lorenza was also a devoted sister to her siblings Rosalia, Maria, Giuseppina, and Pietro. She is predeceased by her beloved husband Antonino Amato, her cherished sons Carlo Amato and baby Carlo Amato, and her siblings Salvatore and Francesca.
In 1970, Lorenza courageously embarked on a new chapter with her family, immigrating from Sicily to Brooklyn, NY, where they cultivated a beautiful life together. In 1983, Lorenza and her family settled in Marlboro, NJ, where she remained until her passing. She lived with her devoted daughter Maria, and together they shared many beautiful years. It was in Maria's home that Lorenza lovingly helped raise her grandchildren, Esterlaure and Salvatore, forming an unbreakable bond and playing a central role in their upbringing. Her presence was not only that of a grandmother, but a guiding light, nurturing them with the same deep care and devotion that defined her life.
A devout Catholic, Lorenza's faith was a cornerstone of her existence, and she could be found watching Mass on her television every day. She possessed exceptional talent as a seamstress, a skill through which she expressed her love-crafting clothing for her family throughout the years and curtains for her home. Her passion for flowers and plants was evident in the verdant beauty that surrounded her, each blossom a testament to her nurturing touch.
Lorenza was also a gifted cook who found great joy in preparing traditional Sicilian peasant meals-humble, nourishing dishes passed down through generations. With simple ingredients, she created meals that were rich in flavor and memory, bringing her family together around the table. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, comfort, and love, where stories were shared and hearts were nourished.
Lorenza's life was an embodiment of care and love. Her family was everything to her and her reason for being; each day was spent ensuring her children and grandchildren felt loved and special. With a unique relationship forged with each one, she was the heart and soul of the family-her presence a warm and reassuring constant.
Although she never learned the English language, Lorenza communicated fluently through the universal dialect of love, a gift that allowed her to forge authentic connections with all who crossed her path. Her wisdom taught lessons of selflessness and unconditional care to those fortunate enough to experience it.
Lorenza Amato lived her life as a testament to enduring and unconditional love, and she will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered by all who were blessed to know her.
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