Fortunata Musacchia

Fortunata Musacchia, a cherished seamstress and beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, in West Islip, NY, at the age of 89. Born on April 4, 1936, in the beautiful hills of Sicily, Italy, Fortunata carried with her a vibrant spirit and an old-fashioned Sicilian heart, leaving a lasting imprint on everyone who was fortunate enough to know her.

Fortunata’s life was woven together with love, family, and traditions. As an old-fashioned Sicilian lady, she was known for her honesty, always speaking her mind with a passionate clarity that resonated with those around her. She is predeceased by her husband Giovanni, who she married in 1965 and was married to for 35 years before his passing in 2000. Her loved for him continued as she never removed her wedding band. She poured her love into her family, savoring every moment spent with her children and grandchildren. Her daughter, Mimi (Nicolo) Chisesi, and son, Nicky (Gina) Musacchia, were a source of immense pride for Fortunata.  Saturdays were sacred in her calendar, reserved for treasured time with Mimi, where they would reminisce, laugh, and share great food.

Her grandchildren—Katie, Jonathan, Alex, and Giovanna—were the light of her life. Fortunata delighted in the little things, from her granddaughter Katie meticulously painting her nails, to the playful sounds of laughter and joy that filled her home when her grandchildren visited. She often spoke of her love for her vegetable garden; where she grew her tomato, cucuzza, and cucumbers. 

Fortunata was known for her culinary creations as well; her kitchen was the heart of her home. There, she made Christmas Cookies known as "Cose Di Natale," filling the air with the scent of sweetness and nostalgia. Her fondness for Italian dishes, particularly rice balls, Cucuzza, and her favorite Stella Dora Anisette cookies, embodied her love for sharing meals with family and friends alike.

As a woman with a zest for life, she also had a soft spot for the charming simplicity of Fruit Loops, finding joy in their colorful shapes and sweet flavors. Fortunata's unique blend of traditional values and spirited personality made her a beloved figure not only to her family but to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A visitation will be held in memory of Fortunata on Friday, October 10, 2025 at Mangano Funeral Home, 1701 Deer Park Avenue, Deer Park, NY 11729 from 2 PM to 4:30 PM and again from 7 PM to 9:30 PM. A funeral mass will be held the following day, Saturday, October 11, 2025 at Saints Cyril & Methodius R.C. Church at 10:15 AM.

Fortunata Musacchia lived a life rich with affection, laughter, and memories that will forever resonate in the hearts of her loved ones. She leaves a legacy of love that will continue to inspire those she has touched. As her family holds her memory close, they find comfort in knowing that her spirit endures in every sweet cookie baked, every vegetable grown, and every heartfelt conversation shared.