Mary A. Pettrone

Mary A. Pettrone, 95, of Rochester, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by those she loved on January 23, 2025. Born on March 2, 1929, to Corrado and Anna Cattalani, Mary grew up on Emerson Street and Villa Street, where she dreamed of becoming a hairdresser. Her parents instilled in her the values she carried throughout her life and passed on to her family: never lie, cheat, or steal. She was predeceased by her parents and her beloved siblings: Anthony, Elsie, Paula, Gemma, and Donald Cattalani.

Mary’s strength and resilience were rare. She lived an extraordinary life, witnessing her children and grandchildren grow, creating a legacy of love, kindness, and treasured memories. She is lovingly survived by her children: George (Ellen) Pettrone, Georgann (Mario) Abbondanzieri, Corinne Pettrone, Michael (Gale) Pettrone, and Paul Pettrone (partner Eileen Harmon), as well as her grandchildren: Lori Poultney, Damien Abbondanzieri and Mario (Rachel) Abbondanzieri, Angelle (Pete) Doherty, Alexandra (Kasey) Pettrone, Julianna Pettrone, Colton Munding, and 7 great grandchildren. Though she is no longer with us, Mary will always be remembered. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved her, and the memories of her kindness, warmth, and wisdom will last forever.

As a teenager, she enjoyed ice skating, roller skating, attending church every Sunday, and preparing potato salad for family picnics. She loved summer for the parks, swimming, and family gatherings, and her favorite flower was the lavender orchid. Baseball brought her happiness too; she played outfield with a local club called the Chit Chat Club and often said she was pretty good at playing the sport. Mary’s favorite song was "If I Give My Heart to You" by Doris Day, a tune that reflected her warmth and love. She never gave up her heart easily, but when she did, you were part of her life forever.

Mary’s life was filled with cherished memories and traditions. She often reminded her loved ones that she never did drugs, only drank at weddings, and, remarkably, never received a flu shot in her entire life. Family meals were a big part of Mary’s life. Her mom’s homemade macaroni and sauce, crafted entirely by hand, remained her favorite dish, and Mary herself made the best banana bread and mac and cheese anyone could ever taste. To this day, no one has been able to replicate these dishes despite having the secret recipe.

Mary took great pride in her neatness and her role as a mother and grandmother. She cherished every moment with her family and set an example of love, care, and dedication. Her dedication extended to her work, where she proudly served as the PBX operator at the Rochester Airport Marriott until the remarkable age of 85. Many still remember her cheerful and professional greeting: "Rochester Airport Marriott, this is Mary speaking, how may I direct your call?"

Calling hours to honor Mary’s memory will be held on February 15, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the James R. Gray Funeral Home. Though she is no longer with us, Mary’s legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. She will forever be remembered for her strength, love, and the countless joyful memories she created. She may be gone, but she will always remain in our hearts.

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