Theresa "Terry" (Palmisano) Zarrella

At 100 years young, Theresa Zarrella of Smithfield, formerly of Cranston, passed away with peace and comfort on Tuesday, December 31, 2024. Born in Providence, she was the daughter of two wonderful parents, the late Rosario and Anna (Comella) Palmisano. She was the beloved wife of the late Joseph F. Zarrella, with whom she made a home full of warmth, food, and music.

Graced with a caring, clever spirit, Terry dedicated her life to family. She was the proud sister of the late Ann D’Alessandro, Rose DiMizio, Angelina Antonucci, Margie Civito, Sue Funaro, Elena Palmisano, Sam Palmisano, Michael Palmisano, and Anthony Palmisano. 

To provide for them and her country, she worked at Fields Point in the Walsh-Kaiser Company’s Providence Shipyard during World War II. A fearless “Rosie the Riveter,” Terry spent her time on the home front as a burner hanging high up in the air, soldering the sides of ships. 

The picture of beauty and boldness combined, she took on the roles of wife and homemaker with that same fire in her heart. Mom, grandma, and matriarch, Terry did it all with a gorgeous perm, a spotless house, and a witty remark. No one made a better Sunday dinner than her. 

She is survived by her loving children, Debra Zarrella-Kiley and her husband Michael E. Kiley, and Joseph V. Zarrella and his wife Karen A. Zarrella; deeply adored grandchildren Joseph G. Zarrella, and his wife Heather Zarrella, Michaela Kiley, great grandson Joseph L. Zarrella, and grandpups Sarah, Kal, Cannoli, and Winnie. 

All her life, Terry led with respect and honesty. Anyone lucky enough to cross paths with her knew how smart, how funny, how kind, and how good she was. Her 100th birthday party was proof. She will be remembered as a brilliant soul who loved to laugh and entertain. Always. 

Special thanks to the CNAs, nurses, and friends who helped take care of Terry the way she did everyone else. She truly appreciated it and counted you as family too.

VISITING HOURS will be held on Thursday, January 9th from 8:00 – 9:00 a.m. in the Nardolillo Funeral Home & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Church, Cranston. Burial will take place in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston.