Filomena M. Angiuli was born in Sanicandro di Bari, Italy in April of 1937, the youngest of 3 children born to Constanza and Vito Michielli. Her older brothers, Sam and Frank watched over her in Italy and later in the US where the Michielli family built a life. When visiting Sanicandro some 15 years later, Filomena met her husband of 54 years, Vito Angiuli. He was understandably smitten by her charm, beauty and great sense of style. According to Vito's recollections, so much so, that he begged for her hand to all the relatives that would listen. They soon married, honeymooned in Italy till their boosta money was gone, then sailed to New York, (unfortunately against Vito’s moms protestations). Filomena and Vito settled in the Morris Park section of the Bronx, and started a family of their own. First came Mary Grace, then Connie and finally came Frank Vito. This prompted a move to the suburbs where family gatherings from both sides of the family were the norm. We became part of the immigrant story that is woven into this country. All here as a testament to the American dream realized because of Filomena and Vito’s courage and grit.

Filomena worked for the telephone companies for over 30 years. She was a dedicated and protective mom who always put her kids first. Family vacations, and dinners were a constant, and education was stressed. Though she didnt have a college degree herself, she sent all 3 kids to University and each graduated with honors, and lived with passion and unprecedented grace and street smarts. Based on her support and encouragement, Frank is now an entrepreneur, Mary, an advertising professional and Connie, a social worker and Bernie Sanders delegate.

Filomena had impeccable taste in fashion, and was fiercely protective of her family. She was loved by both her immediate and extended family, coworkers, neighbors, and everyone that had the great fortune to know her. She combined Italian tradition with American values spiced with her ever present New York attitude. Her mother Constanza lived with her in New York until her passing at age 97 allowing three generations of love and wonderful Italian food.

Filomena followed her dream to buy a beach house at the Jersey Shore so our extended family could gather together. Her grandchildren, Phillip, Frank, and Jason had the blessing of the childhood which Filomena carefully cultivated for her children, their spouses, and her grandchildren.

Sadly, Alzheimer’s disease slowly robbed her of her memory and faculties, but never took her will to participate and explore in life. Frank and Filomena spent countless hours together walking through the botanical gardens, combing the beach, and road tripping to new places around NY, NJ and Florida. Mary took her to Italy in 2017 which offered her the chance to visit her hometown one last time.

Thanks Mom for all you did to make the world a better place. We will miss you.