Drita Gjonca

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Drita, our loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, on Saturday, February 16, 2019. 

She left us as the sun was rising on a beautiful winter day, a fitting departure as her name means “light” in her native language, Albanian. She was in her 90th year. 

Born in Mitrovica, Kosovo during times of regional turmoil, Drita and her family trekked to Albania in search of stability. The journey resulted in the orphanage of Drita and her brother, the only survivors of the trip.

Drita grew up much faster than most, fighting in Allied forces against Nazi Germany in WWII at the age of 15. During the battle, she fought side-by-side with her future husband, Sotir (deceased). 

Drita and her husband became veterans of war and raised an honorable family of 4 kids, Vladimir (deceased), Natasha, Gezim, and Aleksander. For several years, Drita served as county administrator for the city of Tirana, where she played a significant role in helping her community. Drita moved on to become an accomplished Director of Hospitality at numerous hotels across the country. Her ambition took her far, allowing her to travel and excel in her career. 

While in Albania, Drita lost her oldest son and husband within the span of 10 years. She continued on as a matriarch and widow, and welcomed three grandchildren, one from each remaining child.

In 1994, Drita emigrated to the United States and landed in Worcester, MA where her kids had settled. In 1995, Drita welcomed her fourth grandchild, and by the close of the year, her family was back together in the same country. Drita was proud to call Worcester her home for the remainder of her life, where she was an upstanding member of St. Mary’s Albanian Orthodox Church.

Drita lived a full life as a grandmother once in the United States, raising her youngest grandchild, and welcoming three great-grandchildren since the turn of the century. She was their biggest fan and supporter, and watched Channel 13 religiously for their names on the Worcester Public Schools Honor Roll. 

Drita loved her family and cherished family gatherings. She was the light of every occasion and her only desire in her life was happiness for her family. She enjoyed anything that had to do with family coming together, playing cards and chatting with her friends, and Albania television dramas.

All whom loved her dearly will never forget her radiant smile, lightening eyes, and giggly laugh. 

Calling Hours are today (Tuesday), February 19^th, from 4 - 7 PM in Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel at 370 Plantation St, Worcester MA. Her Funeral will be held on Wednesday, February 20th beginning at 11 AM in the funeral home.  Interment will follow All Faiths Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, and in Drita’s honor, any donations can be made to St. Mary’s Albanian Orthodox Church, 535 Salisbury St., Worcester, MA 01609.