Maria "Maruzzella" Ruotolo

Maria (Servodio) "Maruzzella" Ruotolo, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, in Melrose, Massachusetts. Born on August 12, 1938, in Arpaia Benevento, Italy, she was a daughter to the late Francesco and Arcangela (D'Onofrio) Servodio. Maria's life was a testament to her enduring spirit and her capacity to touch the lives of everyone she encountered.
Maria was the beloved wife of the late Andrea Ruotolo and a devoted mother to her children, Annette and her husband Richard Rescigno, Michelle and her husband Romeo Caraffa, and Michael Ruotolo. She was a cherished grandmother to Andrea, Vanessa, Marialissa, Ashley, and Michaelanthony, whose lives she enriched with her warmth and wisdom. Maria was also a loving sister to Anna Maiol, the late Aniello Servodio, Giovanni, Armando, Giuseppe, Michele Servodio, and Pasqualina Girardi. She held a special place in the hearts of her sister-in-law Teresa Viglietti and her late husband Rocco, as well as her brother-in-law Joseph Ruotolo and his wife Antonietta. Sister- in- law Anna Servodio. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
For over six decades, Maria was a hardworking and successful business owner in Harvard Square, Cambridge, where her dedication and entrepreneurial spirit were evident to all who knew her. Her work was not just a job but a passion that reflected her commitment to excellence and community.
Maria's love for her heritage was palpable, as she traveled to Italy for over 60 years to reconnect with family and friends. She was known as the most beautiful woman in her town, not only for her outward appearance but for the beauty she carried within her heart. She was an active member of both Incarnation Church and St. Mary's Church.
A lover of life's simple pleasures, Maria enjoyed her winter condo in Florida, where she spent time with friends, always with a great heart and a giving spirit. She was an exceptional cook, known for her holiday meals that brought the family together in celebration and joy. Her grandchildren, in particular, looked forward to "Nonna Ma's" holiday gatherings, where they savored her delicious food and reveled in her funny stories.
Maria's legacy is one of love, generosity, and selflessness. Her life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of care she provided to her family, the support she extended to her friends, and the kindness she showed to strangers. She will be remembered as a woman who gave of herself completely, whose laughter filled rooms, and whose presence made the world a brighter place.
A Mass Of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, October 31, 2025 at 10:30 AM at The Incarnation Church, 429 Upham Street, Melrose. Following The Funeral Mass we will be traveling in procession for the entombment at Holy Cross Mausoleum, 175 Broadway, Malden. Maria will be laid to rest with her late husband Andrea Ruotolo. Family & Friends respectfully invited to attend.
In lieu of flowers if you wish to make a donation in Maria's memory you may choose between St. Jude’s or the Jimmy Fund. These organizations were very special to Maria. https://www.stjude.org/donate or https://www.jimmyfund.org/