Obituary of Mary G. Salerno

Mary G. Salerno Mary G. Salerno, a Roman, died on Friday, March 11, 2016. Born October 7, 1924, Mary was the 4th of 6 children of Italian immigrants. Her parents, Sisto and Grace Giansanti, operated Sisto's restaurant on Dominick Street. In high school, Mary met Mike Salerno and they fell in love and married. In the face of WWII, while Mike was deployed in the South Pacific, Mary moved to San Diego and worked along with many other women to support the war effort. After the war, Mike and Mary moved to the Bronx where she ran a candy store to support his education. They returned to Rome where Mike set up his podiatry practice, and she continued to support him by working in the office throughout the years. They were a loving and dedicated couple, enjoyed many international trips together and made a handsome impression on the dance floor. After their children were grown, Mary attended college and received her associate's degree with high honors. She remained an avid reader and learner throughout her life. Mary's award-winning talent as an artist was evident even as a young girl. Her family cherishes her early drawings as well as the paintings that she made through her later years. Mary also loved opera and could often be heard singing her favorite arias while cleaning her house. Mary loved Rome. She was involved in many community organizations, including the Hospital Auxiliary, the Rome Art and Community Center, St. John the Baptist Church. She was a gracious and generous hostess and loving homemaker. Her home was a hub of meals and parties for families and friends. She presided over these events, perfectly dressed, with her impeccable organized style. Mary is survived by her son, David Michael Salerno and his wife, Leah, of Chattanooga, Tennessee; her daughter, Elena Salerno Flash and her husband, Stephen, of Ithaca New York, her grandchildren, Christina, Michelle, Michael, Stephanie and Ned, and many nieces and nephews. Mary was predeceased by her husband, Michael C. Salerno, and her son, Mark John Salerno. Because of her love of the arts, in lieu of cards and flowers, please consider a contribution in Mary's honor to the Rome Art and Community Center, 308 W. Bloomfield St., Rome, NY 13440. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. John the Baptist Church on Tuesday March 15, 2016, with the Rev. Paul F. Angelicchio officiating at 4:00 pm. The family will receive friends at the Church from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Cemetery. There are no calling hours. Arrangements are by the Nicholas J. Bush Funeral Home, Inc., 218 W. Court St. To offer online condolences, please visit www.njbushfuneralhome.com