Teresa (Barbato) Cacciate

Teresa (Barbato) Cacciate, of Worcester, formerly of Naples, Italy, a dedicated Aunt, neighbor and friend passed away Tuesday, March 4th, 2025, with loved ones gathered at her side.

Teresa was born in Marigliano, Naples Italy, one of ten children of Pasquale and Annunziata (Liccardi) Barbato. Growing up in her Italian village, Teresa married Giovanni “John” Cacciate in 1949, in 1966, Teresa and Giovanni immigrated to the United States, and to Worcester. Teresa then worked as a stitcher for area manufacturing companies before retiring. In 1980, Teresa and Giovanni briefly moved back to Naples before returning to the US after the Italy earthquake in 1985, and have lived in the Holmes Field neighborhood of Worcester, ever since. Giovanni left Teresa’s side in 2009, after 60 years of love and devotion. Teresa continued to live in her home until recently.

Never blessed with children, Teresa leaves behind, nieces and nephews, including Armando Sodano, his wife Christina and their family whom she thought of as her children. Armando and Tina, made sure she was safe, involved and well taken care of. She also leaves her best friend and neighbor Sophia Hayeck whom she had coffee with daily. Other extended nieces, nephews, grand and great nephews and nieces both here and in Italy. Teresa was predeceased by three brothers, Sebastiano, Gaetano “Guy” and Stefano “Steve” Barbato, and six sisters, Mafalda Soter, Anna Lanotte, Italia DiGennaro, Orsula Cercielo, Maria Sacco and Grazia “Grace” Sodano.

Teresa, a quiet woman with a bright smile, huge heart and kind way, loved her neighbors, loved to cook, dance, dress impeccably and made sure she looked that way every time she went out. She was a member of Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church, the Golden years and most enjoyed attending functions with her sisters at the Mt Carmel Recreation Hall notably Carnivale and all Italian sponsored events. Teresa loved her Italian heritage and passed it on to anyone she could.

A period of calling hours will be held Monday, March 10th from 10:00 am to 10:30 am followed by her funeral mass at 10:30 am in Our Lady of Loreto Church, 37 Massasoit Road. Burial will follow in Mt View Cemetery, Shrewsbury. In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in her name can be made to Our Lady of Mt Carmel/Loreto, 37 Massasoit Road 01604. The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St is honored to assist the family with arrangements.