Maria Rosa (Tarantino) Vannelli's Obituary
Maria Rosa (Tarantino) Vannelli, 77, of Liverpool, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on February 12, 2026. She was born in Monopoli Bari, Italy on June 14,1948 to the late Anthony Vito and Chiara (Selicato) Tarantino, and at the age of thirteen years old she immigrated to the United States. Maria graduated from Henninger High School- Class of 68’. She was the proud co-owner with her brother, Stephen, of Rosie’s Corner for 15 years before retiring in 2000. Prior to that, she worked at St. Joseph’s Hospital.
A loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, auntie, and cousin, Maria was a steady and guiding presence for her family, and they were the center of her life. She believed deeply that family was life's greatest blessing and her love for them was immeasurable. She was a caretaker all her life, she always put others first. She led by example- quietly, consistently, with integrity; the love she spread knew no bounds.
Making a house a home and sharing her love by taking care of her family was Maria’s greatest pride in life. She enjoyed cooking, baking, cleaning, sewing, crocheting, dancing, collecting recipes, bowling, a good day at the farmers market, throwing the best parties, spoiling and spending time with her kids and grandchildren, and being surrounded by nieces, nephews and extended family. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, the coffee was always ready, and there was always plenty of food and room at the table for more. Stories and laughter were shared and love overflowed. Whether she was preparing a feast for a holiday, a smorgasbord for a New Year’s Eve bash, or an ordinary meal, she had a way of bringing everyone together to build the best traditions and create lasting memories. Those moments- filled with joy, laughter and togetherness- were some of her most cherished and are among the memories her family will hold closest.
Throughout her journey, Maria displayed incredible strength, grace, and unwavering hope as she fought a long and courageous battle with cancer. Those who knew Maria will remember her warmth, her sense of humor, and the way she made you feel supported and loved simply by always being there, ready and willing to listen. She gave herself and her time freely without ever expecting anything in return. She always said that at the end of the day all you have to take with you are love and memories- and she has left us with an abundance of both. She will also be remembered for her gift of unconditional love, selflessness, and generosity of heart. Her legacy is one of love, dedication and a life well lived.
In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her son-in-law, Joseph DiDomenico.
She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 56 years, Joseph R. Vannelli; her children, Christina (Jeffrey) Peterson, Lisa DiDomenico, Carmela (Michael) Camarella
and Michelle V. Kasouf; her treasured grandchildren, Joshua, Juliana, Elissa, Joseph, Sophia, Nina, Anthony, Dominic, Serafina, Nicholas and Lilyana; siblings, Stephen (Marilyn) Tarantino and Laura (Alan) Vadala; all of her nieces and nephews and her beloved cousins and extended family members in Italy who were still a part of her life.
Visitation will be held on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., followed by a prayer service at 11:00 a.m. at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY. A Catholic Funeral Mass in celebration of Maria’s life will follow at 12:30 p.m. in Our Lady of Pompei/St. Peter Church, 301 Ash St. Entombment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery Mausoleum.
Contributions in Maria's memory may be made to Our Lady of Pompei/St. Peter Church, 301 Ash Street, Syracuse, NY 13208.
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