Flora N. (ciardiello) DeRosa

Flora N. DeRosa, 93, passed away on June 24, 2020. Flora was born on February 25, 1927 in Naples, Italy to the late Ferdinando and Rosaria (Politi) Ciardiello. She was the oldest of four children. Flora spent her younger years in Italy, including Terranova, a small town near Naples where she enjoyed many summers with her family. Flora studied and worked as an Italian teacher before meeting her American husband, Salvatore “Sam” DeRosa, and moving to the United States. Flora and Sam had five children, raising their family first in Saugus and then in North Reading, MA, eventually moving to Nashua, NH to be closer to their children.

Flora had a great love of family and instilled within them an appreciation for the Italian culture and its traditions, be it through her authentic and amazing cooking, holidays, religion, travel, or fashion. Being an avid gardener with spectacular success, Flora surrounded herself with beauty all year round. A homemaker first and foremost, after her children were older, Flora’s love for medicine led to her becoming a nurse’s aide, before working in a variety of other positions throughout her life. Her resilience and strength was evident in everything she did; her storytelling and sense of humor made all those around her feel at ease. She enjoyed travelling both within the United States and Italy.

Flora is survived by her children, daughter, Vivian Sarlo of Milford, NH; Sandra DeRosa of Milford, NH; son, Anthony DeRosa and his wife, Cheryl, of Lynn, MA; grandchildren, Vanessa Talasazan, and her husband, Michael; Michael Sarlo; Amy and Rebecca DeRosa; and one great-grandchild, Lydia Talasazan. She is predeceased by her husband of 66 years, and two of her children, Janet DeRosa and Dolores (DeRosa) Otting.

A private funeral was held at St. Theresa’s Church in North Reading, MA on June 29, 2020. Flora is buried in Riverside Cemetery, North Reading, MA.  Flora’s family will never forget their mother and grandmother, and although their hearts are grieving, they will always know she is sitting with the Lord enjoying His gardens in peace and serenity.

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