Margaret Ciaramitaro's Obituary
Margaret Gagliano Ciaramitaro passed away peacefully on June 22, 2024 at Ave Maria Home.
She was born May 5th, 1932, to parents Sam and Angeline Gagliano. She grew up on Vance Avenue directly across the street from St. Agnes Academy. She attended school there for 12 years. After graduation she enrolled at Memphis State and attended class while also working at her parent’s grocery store. In 1952, a close family cousin and matchmaker, Zia Antonia Peri, introduced Margaret to Angelo Ciaramitaro. They were married at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Memphis in 1953. They were blessed with two children, Joe, and Julie.
The family attended Holy Rosary Church and School. Margaret was active in the Mother’s Club and especially enjoyed the Mom’s Bowling League, even earning a few trophies.
In her mid- forties, Margaret started her secretarial career. As a great typist and organizer, she was hired at Holiday Inn Corporate Offices. She worked there over 10 years. She often shared her employee benefit with family members who then received great discounts on furniture, window blinds, ceiling fans & mattresses.
Angelo enjoyed grocery shopping and cooking, so Margaret spent her time perfecting their home. She loved decorating and selecting just the right piece for every room. She spent time and money with old Memphis retailers such as Dagastino’s Custom Draperies, Hermann’s Interiors, Samuel’s Showroom and Blair House. Their home was always beautiful and always neat as a pin!
She loved her family and friends. Weekend nights were always an opportunity to gather and play Tripoli, Poker, Rook, or Mississippi Marbles. Some games lasted through the night and ended at sunrise with fresh coffee and Gibson’s Donuts.
Margaret leaves her daughter Julie, and son-in-law Tommy Gattas. She leaves grandchildren Stephanie Ciaramitaro, Joseph Ciaramitaro (Marissa), Clay Gattas and Neil Gattas (Nicha) and two great grandchildren JoJo Ciaramitaro and Nora Gattas.
The family extends sincere thanks to all the volunteers and caregivers at Ave Maria Home for their kindness and skill. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Ave Maria Home or a charity of your choice.
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