Vita Buffa

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Vita Buffa, born on June 26, 1946, in Partinico, Sicily, Italy to Ettore & Maria (nee Costante Nobile) Fiorentelli. A beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, Vita passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025, in Lyndhurst, New Jersey, leaving behind a legacy of love and culinary delight.

Vita's journey through life was marked by her dedication to her family and her passion for cooking. She was the proud owner and cook at La Bella Vita, a restaurant where her skillful hands crafted meals filled with warmth and tradition. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, where countless memories were made over shared plates and laughter. Vita was the Past President of the Italian Association Club "ieri Oggi Domani" and a life long member.

Vita is predeceased by her beloved husband, Salvatore Buffa. She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Giuseppa & her husband Anthony Sanchez, Giuseppe & his wife Francine Buffa, and Maria & her husband Paul Nazzaro. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Francesca, Vita, Anthony, Liliana, Lia, Sofia, Elita, and Vanessa; her great-grandchildren, Lorenzo, Adriana, Jonathan, Antonio, Giovanna, Layla Jo, and Brianna; and her great-gread grandson, Louis. Her family also includes many nieces, nephews, and loved ones who will carry her memory into their hearts. She is predeceased by her siblings, Maria, Tanina, Tommasa, Salvatore, and Franco.

Friends & family will be received Sunday 2-6 PM. Funeral Monday 9AM from the Ippolito-Stellato Funeral Home, 425 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst. Funeral mass 10 AM Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. Entombment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery & Mausoleum.

Vita Buffa's kindness, humor, and culinary talents will be dearly missed but will live on in the hearts and memories of those she touched throughout her life. Her legacy continues through her son, who opened Nonna Vita Trattoria to keep her memory alive. May she rest in peace.