Paola Salvini Capasso
Paola Salvini Capasso
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Before retiring in 2010, Paola was a Professor of Biology at Union County College, where she inspired a generation of students to remain curious and explore the wonders of life. Her mentorship extended beyond the classroom, always encouraging others to appreciate the beauty around them. Before her passing, Paola shared these words of inspiration with her palliative care doctor: "Tap into yourself, into the good things in your life, 'the joie de vivre,' and transmit to others the beauty of your life and why you are grateful for your life. Even if beauty cannot last forever, you can pass it around, and that is something no one can take from you."
Paola's zest for life was expressed through travel, museums, and her love of books. She led book clubs in both English and Italian, sharing her joy of discovery and connection.
Cherished by her family and friends, she is survived by her husband, Federico Capasso; daughters Luisa Robinson and Marta LaRusso; son-in-law Matthew LaRusso; grandchildren Luca, Leo, Mattia, and Nico; and siblings Pietro, Stefano, Francesco, and Giovanna.
Paola's story is one of hope, love, and a life fully lived. The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on October 25, 2025, at Saint Paul's Church, 29 Mount Auburn Street, Cambridge, MA.
Donations in Paola's memory may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, PO Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
William E. Dunscombe
October 7, 2025
Dr. Salvini-Capasso was a well respected member of the Biology Department. She enjoyed a good relationship with her colleagues and with her students. Dr. Salvini-Capasso always had a ready smile and was as friend to many, all of whom will miss her.
Bill Dunscombe - Dean of Plainfield Campus, UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ
Katie Bishop
October 7, 2025
Luisa, Marta, and Federico - my heart hurts for you and I´m so grateful that you loved her as fiercely as she loved you. Her energy and spice for life was beautiful. I´m so thankful that I got to spend a little time with Paola while Luisa and I were in college. She made me laugh and smile and reminded me to enjoy the good things in life. Federico and Paola, you raised amazing humans - Luisa and Marta share their mom´s kindness, understanding, passion, good sense of humor, and beauty in the world.
George Treves
October 7, 2025
I just heard about Paola's passing from Cesare and Liliana Bernabei, and would like to express my sympathy to Federico, Luisa and Marta. I remember your Mother very fondly. Paola was a devoted friend of my mother's, especially when Clo was ill, and spent many hours at our home. We were all very fortunate to have known her, her generous spirit and to have shared her warmth. I was recently in the Boston area, and tried to visit, but, regrettably it wasn't possible. I hope to express my condolences in person next time I travel to the States.
Prof. Carl Cuttita
October 6, 2025
Paola was a kind person, a dedicated faculty colleague and a gifted teacher. She will be missed.
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