Mary Jo (Gervasi) Muolo

Mary Jo (Gervasi) Muolo passed away peacefully in the comforts of her loving home on August 9, 2025, at age 95. Mary Jo was born in Syracuse, the second oldest of the four daughters of Josephine (Puglisi) and Salvatore Gervasi. She graduated from North High School and continued her education at Beaux Arts School of Beauty, becoming a hairstylist, which she continued until she was 87. Known for her sense of style and love of dance, Mary Jo and her husband Paul of 56 years spent many enjoyable hours dancing with friends at the Italian American Athletic Club. She was a faithful parishioner of St. Rose of Lima Church and an active member of the Daughters of Columbus and Legion of Mary. Mary Jo was most proud of her family and home. Her home was a gathering spot for family and friends to relax and celebrate- often welcomed by the aroma of her signature sauce simmering or freshly fried chicken cutlets. Mary Jo was a devoted mother having been blessed with three children, three grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, all who have given her a lifetime of joy. She loved spending time together, attending their many activities and giving her signature back rubs. Along with her parents, Mary Jo was predeceased by her husband, Paul (2003); children, Paula (1990) and Nick (1978) and her son-in-law, Dr. Steven F. Zdep (2020). Mary Jo is survived by her loving daughter, Judy (Muolo) Zdep; cherished grandchildren, Dr. Steven R. Zdep (Stacy), Lisa Pohlman (Jason) and Christopher Zdep (Meagan); beloved great-grandchildren, Sara, Julie, Rachel, Kate, Alina, Clayton, Gracyn, Caleb, Aiden, and Haley; her sisters, Theresa Kline, Rosalinda Pollastro and Elaine Freedburg; sister-in-law, Antoinette Campolito and many loved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Our family extends deep gratitude to all who cared for Mary Jo. You became her trusted friends while providing incredible care. A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Mary Jo’s life will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday August 29, 2025 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 3494 Rt. 31 Baldwinsville, NY. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, Syracuse, NY. In lieu of flowers please consider supporting the Child Life Program at Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital in memory of Paula and Nick, 750 E. Adams St., Syracuse, NY 13210.

Mary Jo (Gervasi) Muolo

March 14, 1930 - August 9, 2025