It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Antoinette
“Toni” Giarolo, who left this world on December 24, 2025, at the age of 92. She was
born on November 8, 1933, to Concetta and Rosario Stracuzzi in Pittsfield, Ma.
Toni graduated from Pittsfield High School in 1951 and, shortly after, married the love of
her life, John Giarolo, Sr., in 1954. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter,
and memories in Lee, where they raised their two children, Jeanne and John.
Family, faith, and friends were everything to Toni and her spirit and infectious laughter
will forever be etched in our hearts. She was known for her Italian cooking and creating
a home that not only served as a sanctuary for her family but also as a gathering place
for friends and loved ones. She held deep faith as a devoted Catholic, which was an
integral part of her identity.
She is survived by her brother, Peter Stracuzzi; her children, Jeanne and Chuck Roode,
and John and Susan Giarolo; her five grandchildren, Jenna Braun (Tim), Megan
Giarolo (Brian), Anthony Giarolo (Erin), Nicole, and Nina Roode; as well as six great-
grandchildren and many nieces and nephews, who will carry her legacy of love
forward. Toni was predeceased by her loving Sister Angie Rufo, and brothers, George
and Carmelo Stracuzzi.
Toni’s family would like to thank the Meridian in Punta Gorda, FL., for the loving
care that she received over the last year.
A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 28th at 10 AM at St. Mary's Church in Lee. Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery.