MARIE THERESA (CHRISTY) ROCCHIO

88, of Cranston, passed away on Tuesday, April 12, 2011 surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of Peter J. Rocchio for 67 years. Born in Providence, Marie was the daughter of the late Anthony and Mary Frances (Zito) Christy. Marie was a member and treasurer of St Matthew Women's Club and secretary of St Matthew Parish Council; a member of Theta Chi Mother's Club of URI; a 25-yr member of the VFW Ladies Aux. Post 329; a Para-professional for 17 years in the Cranston School Department; and VP and secretary of Park Avenue Gasoline Station in Cranston. She was an avid 10-pin bowler and was also active with the KofC Ladies Aux. #1738. Marie also served as chair and co-chair of several of the CHSE Class of '41 Reunions. Her favorite pastime was visiting area casinos. She leaves her children Joanmarie Blessington of Cranston; Patricia Monroe of Glocester; Debra Veasey, Valerie Barber & husband Robert, and Paul Rocchio of Cranston; and Philip Rocchio & wife Lisa of Coventry. She was mother to the late Ptlm. Peter A. Rocchio. She was mother-in-law to the late John J. "Jack" Blessington of Cranston, and Gladys Rocchio of North Providence. She is also survived by nineteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She was also the sister of Etta Crudale of Cranston and the late COL (US Army Ret) John J. Christy of IN, the late Alphonse and Joseph Christy, and the late Helen Meschino. Her funeral will be held on Monday at 9 am from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory 1278 Park Ave., Cranston, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in St. Matthew's Church, Elmwood Ave., Cranston. Burial will take place in St. Ann's Cemetery, Cranston. VISITING HOURS: Sunday 4-8 pm. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to: St. Matthew's Church, 15 Francis Ave., Cranston, RI 02910-2209.

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