Maria Luisa DiGregorio

It is with emotion, but also a deep gratitude for life itself, that we share the spirit of Maria Luisa (Innocente) DiGregorio fulfilled her time on earth on October 13th, 2024.
Whether you knew her as Maria, Nonna, Luisa, Ci, Zia CiCi, Mom, Bella, or simply as the "lady with the hat", Maria's smile, adorable accent and gentle ways touched everyone's heart; making her loved and cherished by so many. Her hugs embraced you like warm sunshine soft, calming and always smelling like Clinique.
Beginning life in Benghazi, Libya and then northern Italy, Maria won the title of Miss Motor-scooter for her charm and beauty, and worked in the finance office of the US Embassy in Udine. During this time, she caught the eye of Air Force officer, and gentleman, Robert DiGregorio, with whom she would marry and share 54 beautiful years.
After marrying in Italy at age 21, Maria moved to Massachusetts with Robert where she began married life and raised 3 children, while working as a medical technician and meticulous home keeper. Robert's work brought them to Northern Virginia and eventually Virginia Beach, where they would call home and enjoy the rest of their years with each other and family.
Serving as a Eucharistic minister at church, playing tennis, cooking, walking on the beach, sunflowers and butterflies all brought Maria happiness. Yoga, a Mediterranean diet, and an occasional sip of Grey Goose were her fountain of youth; but her greatest joy was spending time with her family and grandchildren. Her proudest and most fulfilling time in life was being a selfless caregiver and nurse to Robert, who battled MS for 15 years. Even when Maria's last years were challenged with aphasia and dementia, the 'new Maria' never swayed from being poised, stylish and adored as the "lady in the hat".
Maria is welcomed in heaven by her husband Robert DiGregorio, and parents, Vittoria and Secondo Innocente. Remaining in life and love are her children, Richard DiGregorio, Susie (Max) Miller, Ron DiGregorio, grandchildren Alex (Ali) Miller, Nicole Miller, Logan Miller, Dominick DiGregorio, and sister Armanda Roelle.
A memorial Mass will be held at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in Virginia Beach on 11/11/24 at 11AM, where Maria will be joined for eternity to rest with her loving husband, Robert. In lieu of flowers, the family asks everyone to find time to share a special moment with your families.
Baci e Abbracci Girasole