Vincenza "Vinny" (Aliperta) Raffaele

Vincenza Raffaele, beloved wife of the late Michele Raffaele, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 13th, 2024 at the age of 87. Born in Somma Vesuviana, Napoli, Italy, she is the loving daughter of the late Luigi and Maria (Cimmino) Aliperta.

Vinny, as she was affectionately known, grew up in Naples, Italy. In 1962, she immigrated to America where she met her husband Michele, and they married in 1966. Together, they lived in Everett and Melrose and raised their family in Reading. By trade, Vinny was a talented seamstress. Later, she owned and operated Melrose Sub Shop which became Gerry’s Pizza. 

Leading an active and full life, Vinny could be found doing Zumba, bowling, playing bocce, taking long walks, knitting and crocheting.  She belonged to the Senior Citizens Clubs of Stoneham, Reading and Wakefield. Extremely social and active, Vinny made the most out of life.  Having a deep faith, she was an active parishioner of St. Agnes Church in Reading.

Her greatest joy came from being with her family and friends. She enjoyed big gatherings with her children and grandchildren and her many friends. Vinny will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

She is the devoted mother of Gerry Raffaele of Reading and Felicia DiBiase and her husband Giro of Winchester. Cherished grandmother of Gabriella Raffaele of Wakefield, Carla DiBiase and Giro Michael DiBiase of Winchester. Loving sister of the late Antonio, Luigi, Giuseppina, Giovanni and Agostino. 

Family and friends are cordially invited to visiting hours at the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St., North Reading (Corner of Park St. and Rt. 28 at the Reading Line) on Monday, March 18th, 2024 from 4 to 8pm.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated for Vincenza at St. Agnes Church, 186 Woburn St., Reading on Tuesday, March 19th, 2024 at 10:30am. Please go directly to church.

Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett.

lieu of flowers,  please consider making a donations in Vinny's memory to the Padre Pio Foundation of America online at https://padrepio.com/giving/donations/

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