Lillian M. Papandrea

Lillian M.. Papandrea, 92, passed away on Tuesday January 14, 2025, at home surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of 70 years to Louis Papandrea who passed away in 2024. Loving mother to Patti Tomasso, Tom Papandrea, Jean Silano and Susan Porzio, dear mother-in-law to Vincent Tomasso, Benedette Papandrea, John Silano and Frank Porzio, devoted grandmother to Nicole, Lisa, Vincent, Michael, Christine, Lianne, Rose, Melissa, Frank and Janine. Lillian is also survived by her 7 cherished great-grandchildren. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Lillian graduated from Bishop McDonnell High School. She pursued her passion for caring for others by completing the New York Foundling Hospital’s Pediatric Nursing program. It was during this time that Lillian first visited Staten Island. In her role as a Pediatric Nurse, she accompanied the children under her care, along with the Sisters of Charity who ran the program. They enjoyed summer days at the Foundlings' summer camp cottages where her love for Staten Island began. The camp was located in the area which is now St. Joseph the Sea High School. On May 30th 1954, Lillian and Louis were married at St. Rosalia’s Church. Their love grew and so did their family. By 1961 they had four children and outgrew their two-bedroom apartment in Brooklyn. By a stroke of divine luck, they moved to Seidman Avenue where their new neighbors became lifelong friends. Known for her impeccable style and elegance, she designed stunning outfits for herself and her family, as well as beautiful interior designs, ensuring every celebration and space was picture-perfect. Lillian was creative and self-motivated, she taught herself how to sew, creating many beautiful garments for her family friends, and herself. She could crochet, needlepoint, and cross stitch. Lillian found her greatest joy in her family. Every step of the way, Lillian was there, celebrating every milestone, big or small—whether it was christenings, birthdays, graduations, school plays, weddings, or the births of her grandchildren. Lillian’s natural ability to connect with others and build trust was instrumental in her rise through the ranks. Starting as a bank teller, her warmth and strong interpersonal skills earned her the respect of colleagues and customers alike, eventually leading to a management position at Nat West, a prominent New York City bank. In retirement, she and Lou were active members of their community. Volunteering at Staten Island University Hospital, participating in the Friendship Club, and their local AARP chapter, where her warmth and laughter were cherished. The family extends their deepest gratitude to Lillian’s caregivers, whose compassion and kindness brought her peace in her final years. Lillian’s beautiful life was filled with love, laughter, and a touch of glamour. She taught us to savor the good moments, lend a helping hand, and embrace life’s joys with an open heart. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be missed and loved always. The family will receive friends from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday, January 17, 2025, at John Vincent Scalia Home for Funerals, Inc., 28 Eltingville Blvd, Staten Island, New York. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 9:45 AM on Saturday at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church located at 5411 Amboy Road Staten Island, New York 10312. Interment will follow in Resurrection Cemetery, Staten Island, NY. Memorial contributions may be sent to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105 or online at: https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sc_icid=header-btn-donate-now. or Smile Train online at https://www.smiletrain.org/order-fundraising-materials?form=givenow

Lillian M. Papandrea

February 1, 1932 - January 14, 2025