Isaia D'Onofrio

Isaia D’Onofrio passed away peacefully at the golden age of 95 on Tuesday, January 7th, 2025. He was born in Paolisi, Italy on January 18, 1929 to Giuseppe and Raffaela D’Onofrio. He was the devoted husband to Caterina D’Onofrio and beloved brother to his sisters: Rosa, Maria Grazia, Gorizia, Elizabeth, Anna and Lucia. 

As a young man, he served in the Italian army where he reached the rank of master sergeant. He eventually met the love of his life Caterina and together they set sail in 1954 on the “Cristoforo Colombo” for America. They settled and lived in Mount Vernon, New York 70 years where they raised a family. Isaia worked tirelessly to ensure his children received a quality education.

He worked for Roman Landscapers, where he proudly tended to the grounds of the famous World’s Fair back in the 60s. He subsequently went to work for the City of Mount Vernon’s Water Department where he retired after 25 years of distinguished service. 

Isaia loved to play cards at the local Italian club as well as playing bocce ball at Hartley Park. On any given day, you could find him tinkering with his tools and self-made gadgets in his garage. He also enjoyed gardening, making wine, and story telling, especially when he spoke of his childhood and his time in the Italian army.

He is survived by his wife, Caterina, his son Joseph D’Onofrio ( Diane), daughter Raffelina Kesten (Marshall), and predeceased by his beloved son, John Paul D’Onofrio along with seven grandchildren: Joseph, Samantha, Christopher, Michael, Johna (Joshua), Jennifer (Philip Thomas) and John (Janie); and two great-granddaughters, Sarah and Autumn.  

He was a sweet and kind soul, with a beautiful smile. He touched many people in his lifetime and was deeply loved by his family and friends. Above all, Isaia was happiest when he was surrounded by his family. We will miss him greatly.

Family and friends are invited to Pleasant Manor Funeral Home, Inc. 575 Columbus Avenue - Thornwood, New York 10594 on Sunday, January 12, 2025 from 4:00 - 8:00 PM for visitation.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Isaia at St. Patrick's Church in Armonk on Monday, January 13, 2025 at 10:30 AM.  Mr. D'Onofrio will be laid to rest in his family crypt at The Ferncliff Cemetery following the funeral mass. 

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