Pietra "Piera" Cafarelli

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Pietra “Piera” Cafarelli, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Piera was predeceased by her beloved husband, Antonio Sr.; her parents, Giovanni and Maria D’Angelo; her sisters, Corradina DeRosa and Emilia D’Angelo; and sister-in-law Gemma Cafarelli and brothers-in-law Gabriele Cafarelli, Frank Caricchio, and Gaetano DeRosa.

She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory: her children RoseMarie (Robert) Cupello, Joseph Cafarelli, and Anthony Jr. (Rebecca) Cafarelli; her treasured grandchildren Nicholas, Ariana (David), Anthony, Brianna, and Michael; her siblings Lou (Mary) D’Angelo, Anna Caricchio, Rita (Roy) Mikulski, and Sebastian (Camille) D’Angelo; in-laws Lucia Cafarelli and Renzo (Rosella) Cafarelli, and Franca Vitucci of Italy; and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Born in Augusta, Sicily, Piera’s life was a rich tapestry woven with talent, tradition, and love. A professionally trained seamstress, she apprenticed in Italy, where she mastered her craft. After immigrating to the United States, her skills and work ethic carried her through positions at Hickey Freeman, Sibley’s, and then retired from General Motors after 25 years of service. Her artistry was also visible in the kitchen—where her famous lasagna, delicate tiramisu, and amaretti cookies as well as arancini became staples at family gatherings and countless celebrations.

Deeply rooted in her faith, Piera was a devoted parishioner of St. Mark’s Church, where she found joy in worship and fellowship. She was also active with the Italian-American Sport Club, attending countless events that kept her connected to her heritage and community. She was a woman of impeccable taste, she had an enduring passion for fashion, always carrying herself with elegance and grace. Piera’s zest for life extended beyond her work and her faith—she enjoyed reading, loved music, and espresso. Family and friends would drop by on any Sunday afternoon at her home to share in her homemade treats, coffee and conversation.

For 25 years she spent winters at her condo at Century Village in West Palm Beach Florida. There she continued her traditions with friends and family alike.

Above all, Piera will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and ability to make others feel welcomed and loved. Her home was a place where laughter, good food, and family always came first.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday from 2:00–5:00 p.m. at Farrell-Ryan Funeral & Cremation Services, 777 Long Pond Road. A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mark’s Church, followed by entombment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Her family and friends take comfort in knowing that she has been reunited with her loved ones who passed before her, and her legacy will continue to live on in the lives she touched.