Evelyn V. Mazzitelli, a cherished educator from Staten Island, passed away on January 5, 2024, at the age of 98. Known for her dedication to teaching and her community, Mazzitelli touched the lives of countless students during her long career in education.
Born and raised on Scribner Avenue in New Brighton, Mazzitelli grew up in a large family and later shared those same childhood experiences with her own children and grandchildren. She was the fourth daughter of Rose (formerly Caporale) and Anthony Fressola and attended Curtis High School before going on to earn both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Hunter College.
Mazzitelli taught at two local schools, P.S. 34 and P.S. 13. Her exceptional contributions to education were recognized when she received the prestigious Teacher of the Year award in 1984. She held a teaching position at P.S. 13 until her retirement in 1986, having made a lasting impact on her students and fellow educators.
In 1952, Mazzitelli married Louis Mazzitelli, with whom she had two daughters, Lois and Eva Lynn. The couple enjoyed 35 years together until Louis’s passing in 1987. Following her retirement, Mazzitelli remained active in the Staten Island community, joining organizations such as the Women’s Auxiliary at St. Vincent’s Hospital and the Women’s Auxiliary at Historic Richmond Town.
Her family described her as an enthusiastic reader and a lover of the arts. Mazzitelli frequently attended performances at Wagner College, Broadway, and New Jersey’s Paper Mill Playhouse. Her passion for theater enriched her life and influenced those around her.
Mazzitelli is survived by her brother, Michael; her daughter, Eva Lynn; son-in-law John Hayko; grandchildren Benjamin Louis and Emily Rose Forman; and great-grandson Henry Christopher. The family has expressed their deep gratitude to the healthcare team who provided care for Mazzitelli, including Dr. Jomarie Zeleznik and the team at Safeharbor Healthcare Services.
A funeral service will be held at Sacred Heart Church on January 12 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Mazzitelli will be laid to rest at Moravian Cemetery, with a committal service scheduled for 11:45 a.m. to noon.
Mazzitelli’s legacy as an educator and community member will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing her. For further details, her full obituary can be found at Legacy.com.
