Lucia Barilone (née Rufo) passed away suddenly on April 24, 2026, at the age of 95, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion to her family.

Born in Castelnuovo al Volturno, Italy, on August 10, 1930, Lucia immigrated to the United States with her husband, Antonio, and their son, Lino, in search of a better life. They settled in South Philadelphia, where she built a warm, loving home that became the heart of her family and a place where everyone was always welcome.

Lucia was the beloved wife of the late Antonio, with whom she built a life centered on faith, family, and tradition. Together, they created a home that was always filled with warmth, laughter, and unconditional love—values that continue to live on through the three generations she leaves behind. She was a devoted and loving mother to Lino Barilone (Alice), Violet DiCristofaro (Vincenzo), and the late Dominic Barilone (Andrea). Her children were her pride and joy.

Lucia was a cherished grandmother to Sabrina Collia, Gabriella Barilone, and the late Matthew Barilone, and a proud great-grandmother to Juliana Aiken, Brendan Aiken, Violet Aiken, and Dominic Barilone. She loved each of her grandchildren deeply and always had a smile on her face when she was with them. She was also the dear sister of Maria Teresa D'Andrea (the late Joe), the late Angelina Penta (the late Domenico), and the late Gino Rufo (Lina), and is also survived by many nieces and nephews who will remember her kindness and generosity. Nothing brought her more happiness than being surrounded by family.

Lucia loved being in the kitchen, cooking for everyone. There was always food—biscotti, hand-rolled gnocchi, fried dough—you name it. She made sure everyone was fed and taken care of, and no one ever left her house hungry. Cooking was her way of showing love, and it's something we will always remember. Her kitchen was truly the heart of her home, and everyone had a place there.

Although she is no longer with us, Lucia's love will live on in every family gathering, every shared meal, and every tradition she passed down. She had a gift for connecting with everyone she met, even across language barriers—everyone loved Nonna.

Relatives and friends are invited to her visitation Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 9 to 10 AM, followed by her Funeral Mass at 10 AM at St. Rita of Cascia Church, 1166 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146. Entombment following Mass at New St. Mary's Cemetery, Bellmawr, NJ 08031.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to a charity of the donor's choice.