Steven Paul Zaffuto

Steven Paul Zaffuto of Cary, NC, formerly of Midlothian, VA, passed away on September 29, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. Steve was born on November 11, 1937 in New York City to Ferdinando and Maddalena Zaffuto, who had immigrated to the United States from Sicily. He was raised in Queens, NY where his parents instilled in him a deep love of God and family, a strong work ethic, and an appreciation for wine and good Italian food. Steve joined the Army after high school where he served honorably as a radio operator in Germany.

After leaving the Army, he began taking college classes at NYU and working for American Tobacco Company where he was a systems analyst first in New York City, then in Richmond, VA until his retirement in 1993. In 1971, Steve married Grace Falcone, the love of his life, and together they raised a family.

Spending time with his wife, three daughters, and grandchildren was what he valued more than anything in life. Steve was also a devoted New York Giants and New York Mets fan through thick and thin. He enjoyed playing tennis and golf and loved having his family cheer him on when he participated in tennis tournaments at Buxton Pool. He spent many years volunteering for Meals on Wheels. He also served on the parish finance council at St. Augustine Catholic Church and later as a lector at St. Gabriel Catholic Church. Steve was also known to enjoy a good martini from time to time.

Steve was predeceased by his parents Ferdinando and Maddalena Zaffuto, his sister Mary Romano, and his brother-in-law Salvatore Romano. He is survived by Grace Zaffuto, his wife of 53 years; his daughters Laura Zaffuto (Michael), Dana Stone (David), Tara Mullins (Eddie); his grandchildren Amanda LaDesso, Jonathan LaDesso, Steven Stone, John Paul Stone, Peter Stone, Anthony Stone, Grace Mullins, Lucas Mullins, and Nicholas Mullins; and Leo LaDesso his great-grandchild.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday October 4th at 11:00 at Mother Teresa Catholic Church, 1125 Mother Teresa Drive, Cary, NC 27519. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Transitions LifeCare, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607.

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