Madeline Bonnici

Madeline Bonnici, 90, of Bronxville, NY, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2025. She was
born on March 4, 1935, in Mount Vernon, NY, to Paul and Angela (Mizzi) Bonnici and lived a
beautiful and faith-filled life, bringing light, love, and kindness to all who knew her. She was a
devoted daughter, sister, aunt, and godmother, whose generosity of spirit enriched her family and
community in countless ways.
From a young age, Madeline placed her trust in God and lived every day guided by her strong
Catholic faith. Her life was one of devotion, compassion, and service. In 1963, she became the first
full-time employee of Franciscan Mission Associates (FMA), beginning a career that spanned six
decades. FMA brings the ministry of St. Francis by providing spiritual and financial support to those
who need it most, and through her tireless dedication, Madeline helped expand its mission to reach
underprivileged countries across the world. As a Franciscan Friar, Madeline was also called to serve
in the villages of El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras, as well as throughout the world, bringing
faith, hope, and comfort to those most in need. Her lifelong commitment culminated in her role as
Executive Director, a position she held until her retirement on September 8, 2023.
Madeline’s faith extended well beyond her professional life. She was deeply active in her parish,
where she participated in various spiritual societies, most notably the Sodality of Our Lady of
Lourdes, which she later led as an adult. On March 25, 1998, she was formally affiliated with the
Order of Friars Minor (OFM), a reflection of her enduring devotion to the Franciscan way of life.
Madeline is survived by her two brothers, Salvatore Bonnici (Josephine) and George Bonnici
(Susan), as well as Ann Marie D’Agostino (Augie), who not only worked alongside Madeline but was
also her dearest friend for many years. She is also survived by 12 nieces and nephews and 24
grandnieces and nephews, each of whom she loved deeply and who will forever cherish her
memory.
She will be forever remembered as a beloved sister who offered care and encouragement, an aunt
who shared unconditional love and wisdom, and a godmother whose faith and guidance shaped the
lives of those blessed to call her their own. She was humble and kind — a gentle soul whose
presence brought comfort to everyone she met. Madeline’s wit, humor and ability to take life in
stride added levity to even the most difficult situations. She was a godmother to many and an
honorary mother to all those she loved, embracing family and friends alike with her deep
compassion and selflessness.
Her warmth, laughter, and occasional sarcasm steadfast support will be missed dearly by all who
knew her. Madeline will always be remembered for her gentle heart, her devotion to God, and her
tireless dedication to serving others. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, faith, and

service — a legacy that will continue to inspire those she touched throughout her long and beautiful
life.
Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those who were uplifted by her
kindness.

A Franciscan Blessing
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
May the Lord show His face to you and have mercy upon you.
May the Lord turn His countenance to you and give you peace.
May the Lord bless you, Madeline.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Franciscans in Memory of Madeline Bonnici at :  https://franciscanmissionassoc.org/make-a-difference/ 

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