Ann (Celenza) Zaccardi, 84, passed away surrounded by the love of her family in the comfort of her home in Billerica, MA on June 17, 2024. She is predeceased by her beloved husband, Joseph Zaccardi Sr., her sister-in-law, Dolores Zaccardi, and her brother-in-law, John Zaccardi. Ann leaves behind her sons, Joseph Zaccardi Jr. and his wife Rebecca, Robert Zaccardi and his wife Cheryl, and her daughter, Lisa Anderson and her husband, Brian. She will also be missed by her sister, Arlene Large and her husband, Neil, and her sister-in-law, Marion Zaccardi.
Ann was born August 7, 1939, in The Bronx. There, she had fond memories of her mother’s beauty parlor, dancing, and going to Orchard Beach in the summertime. As a nursing student at Hunter College, Ann met the love of her life, Joe. While Joe served in the Army in Germany, the two were introduced as pen-pals through Ann’s friend, Maureen. In 1961, Ann and Joe married at Saint Raymond’s Church in New York and began their lives together in Arlington, MA, later settling in Billerica, MA, where they raised their three children.
To her family, Ann was so much more than a mother. She was a friend, a confidant, and the biggest supporter of her ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Despite losing her husband, Joe, too soon, Ann’s life was abundant with love and joy. She enjoyed her many hobbies, including ceramics, cooking, and crocheting. Her home constantly buzzed with family and friends, as her door was always open. Any guest would be greeted with a warm hug and “can I get you something to eat?”, which was more of a statement than a question. Our fondest memories of Ann were built around the kitchen table.
When she wasn’t spending time with her family, Ann found her passion in caring for others as a registered nurse. She was a beloved member of the Billerica community since 1976, serving as Director of Project BEAM, helping to nurture children and support their families, until her retirement in 2012.
Ann will be missed dearly by her children and grandchildren, countless friends, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Ann’s legacy is survived by those close to her but, more than that, Ann is remembered for the love she instilled in everyone she met.
Calling hours are Friday, June 21st, from 9-11 a.m. at the Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, 16 Lee St., Tewksbury, followed by a Funeral Service in celebration of Ann's Life at 11AM. Services will conclude with burial at Fox Hill Cemetery in Billerica.