Giovanna Castelli Nativo

Giovanna Castelli, 82, of Wayne, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in Scogliti, Sicilia, Giovanna carried her Italian roots proudly throughout her life. On May 1, 1965, at just 21 years old, she came to America from Sicily with nothing but a dream and a determination to build a better future. Through courage, faith, and relentless hard work, she created a life filled with opportunity and love.

She worked sewing coats in factories and mills during a time when manufacturing was thriving in the United States. Like many Italian immigrants, she worked long hours with pride and resilience, helping build both garments and community. She earned her U.S. citizenship soon after arriving and remained deeply grateful for the opportunities this country provided. When many factories closed in the 1990s as manufacturing moved overseas, she faced those changes with the same strength and dignity that defined her life.

Above all, Giovanna was the heart of her family - a devoted mother to her son, Joseph, and his wife, Madalena, and to her daughter, Sabrina, and her husband, Benny. She was a proud and adoring Nonna to her three cherished grandchildren, Benny, Jessica, and Marco, and the dear sister of Concetta, Pietro, Salvatore & Paolo Castelli. Nothing brought her more joy than having her family together and being surrounded by the grandchildren she loved so deeply.

She was known as an exceptional Italian cook, and her kitchen was always full. Food was her love language. Whether it was homemade sauce simmering on the stove or cookies prepared with care, she made sure everyone left her table nourished in both body and spirit.

Giovanna loved to dance and truly embraced life. Even at 82, she was dancing twice a week - always smiling, always celebrating. Her laughter was contagious, her presence warm, and her love unconditional.

Honoring her wishes, Giovanna will be cremated and laid to rest in a private burial in the most peaceful way. She did not want a wake or traditional funeral, but instead requested a quiet and dignified farewell. A private memorial Mass will be held to celebrate her beautiful life.

Her legacy of hard work, resilience, joy, faith, and Italian pride will live on through her family and all who were blessed to know her.

Giovanna will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Riposa in pace, Mamma.