Maria R. Justich

On the early morning of August 19, 2024, Maria Rosaria Tomeo Mastrogiorgio Justich of Mount Vernon, New York passed away peacefully at the age of 69 with her loving family by her side.   

Maria was born in Avellino, Italy to the late Vincenzo and Alfonsina (Brillante) Tomeo on June 21, 1955. She was the youngest of five children, the late Antonio, the late Giovanni, Ferdinando, and Antonietta Tomeo. After losing both of her parents, she immigrated to America at the age of 13, where she built a life filled with love and resilience.    

Maria eventually made her way to Mount Vernon, New York and met Anthony Mastrogiorgio at Mount Vernon High School. They fell in love and married young. Together they had two children, Nicholas and Jennifer. After leaving her job at Metropolitan Life, and losing her good friend and cousin-in-law Rosemary, Maria dedicated her life to raising her children alongside their three cousins.   

For several years, Maria co-owned and operated Tina's Kitchen Delicatessen in Mount Vernon with her life-partner Phil (Justich), who she later married in 1998, becoming a step-mother to Jeannine, Cheryl, and Phillip. Her dedication to her work and her ability to connect with customers made her a beloved figure in the community. She later worked at and eventually retired from Bagel Deli Plus, where she continued to excel in the food service industry, always serving with a warm smile and a welcoming heart. 

She had a passion for the casino, frequenting Atlantic City and later on, Mohegan Sun. She and Phil enjoyed playing cards with friends and family and hosting card nights in their home on Cedar Street. Maria's exceptional cooking skills were legendary; she joyfully prepared grand feasts for every holiday and event, creating meals that were cherished by all who had the pleasure of tasting them. 

A mother to all, Maria had a heart of gold, always willing to help anyone in need. Her generous spirit and loving nature touched the lives of all who knew her. Her home was open to all, and she made everyone feel like family.  

Maria is survived by her children, Nicholas Mastrogiorgio and Jennifer (Michael) Quirk, her stepchildren, Jeannine, Cheryl (Sashi) Jarosz, and Phillip (Elizabeth) Justich, her eight beautiful grandchildren, Anthony and Michael Mastrogiorgio, Rosemary and Christopher Thornton, Alexandria and Aksel Jarosz, and Phillip and Grace Justich, and of course, her 2 grandkitties Nutella and Felix. She will also be dearly missed by her daughter-in-law Jennifer, her sister-in-law Maryellen, and numerous friends and extended family, all of whom were blessed by her kindness and love.  

Maria’s ability to fight many battles with unwavering courage and strength will not be forgotten. Her infectious smile, kind heart and her ability to care for all kinds of people will leave lasting impressions on many. Above all, it is safe to say that Maria will be remembered for her great ability to cook a delicious meal. 

While her passing has left her family and friends heartbroken, they are grateful for the many memories that will live on forever. 

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