Lucrezia (Villani) Rocco

Lucrezia “Grace” (Villani) Rocco, 96 longtime Shrewsbury resident passed away peacefully Sunday, September 24, 2017, with her devoted family gathered at her side joining in heaven her husband David Rocco and other family members.      Lucrezia was born and raised in Worcester, a daughter of Italian immigrants Giuseppe and Francesca (DiPierro) Villiani.  She graduated from Worcester Girls trade and accepted a position as a stitcher for various manufacturers in the Worcester area and lastly Donahue Industries in Shrewsbury.    In 1941, Grace married the “Love of her life” David J. Rocco and settled in Shrewsbury in 1957 to raise their family over the next 61 years before David passed away in 2002.  Grace continued to live in the family home until recently.  She is survived by her two beloved children, Barbara A. McGinnis and her husband Edgar of Worcester, David S. Rocco and his wife Deborah of Ipswich; two grandchildren she cherished so much, Brian D. McGinnis, Lisa Zulewski and her husband Mark; two great grandchildren, Nicholas and Adam.   Many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends both here and in Bisceglia Italy.  Along with her husband, her children always came first in her life no matter what.  She was the backbone of her family and remained devoted to them throughout their life.   She was a beautiful person who enjoyed the simple pleasures of life; spending time with family and friends, family dinners, her dear friends, the Shrewsbury Senior Center, travel, gardening, flowers and especially being a grandmother.   Her unwavering faith kept her grounded and helped her through life's challenges.   Her passing leaves a hole in our hearts but her loving and caring soul will not be forgotten. Funeral services will be held Thursday, September 28th 2017 from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St with a procession to St Mary’s Church, 640 Main St Shrewsbury where her funeral mass will be held at 11:30 am.   A period of calling hours will be held from 9:30 am to 11:00 am prior to departing for church.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in her name can be made to the VNA Hospice, 120 Thomas Street Worcester 01608.  The Rocco family would like to personally thank the Homestead Hall Rest Home for the care, comfort and compassion they gave to our mom during a difficult time.