Rosa (Tucci) Cerilli, a beloved figure in the Sudbury community, passed away on April 5, 2026, at the age of 89. She was the devoted wife of Sebastiano Cerilli, who predeceased her in 2016. Together, they built a life filled with love and family.
Family and Early Life
Born in Supino, Frosinone, Italy, in 1936, Rosa married Sebastiano in 1957. The couple embarked on a journey that brought them to Canada, where they settled in the West End of Sudbury. Their union lasted 59 years, producing a loving family.
- Loving mother to Pio and Aldo.
- Cherished grandmother of Julia, Vanessa, and Massimo.
- She was also a dear sister to several siblings, all predeceased.
A Life of Faith and Community
Rosa was known for her unwavering faith, attending mass regularly until mobility issues arose. Even then, she continued to engage with her faith by watching mass on television daily and praying the Rosary.
Active in her community, Rosa was a member of Our Lady of Hope Parish and the Catholic Women’s League. Her compassion extended to her friends and family, earning her the affectionate title, “la madre di tutte” or “the mother of all.”
Career and Hobbies
Rosa enjoyed a fulfilling career as a seamstress, working for various companies, including Mrs. Leppa dressmaking and Jack Fraser Men’s Wear. Even after her retirement, she continued to mend and create from home.
Her true passion lay in the kitchen, where she delighted in creating an array of meals and baked goods. Her famous sponge cake was a highlight at family gatherings, though she famously kept its recipe a secret.
A Passion for Gardening
An avid gardener, Rosa worked alongside Sebastiano to cultivate a flourishing vegetable garden each year. This shared endeavor was a source of joy for the couple and a testament to their partnership.
Final Arrangements
Rosa’s farewell will be held at Lougheed Funeral Home in Sudbury. Friends can pay their respects on April 12, 2026, during the afternoon and evening hours. A funeral mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Hope Church on April 13, 2026, and will be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the NCF Cancer Center as a tribute to Rosa’s life. The legacy of Rosa Cerilli will live on in the hearts of her family and community, where she will be dearly missed.
