Angelina "Nannie" (DeSantis) Roche

It is with deep sorrow that we announce that Angelina R. “Nannie” (DeSantis) Roche, 89, of Worcester passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 surrounded by her loving family at home.

Angelina was born in Worcester on May 17, 1937, one of four children of Italian immigrants, Leonard and Rachael (Amedeo) DeSantis. She was raised in Worcester on Shrewsbury Street, where her father owned and operated a successful business. Angelina graduated from Commerce High School.

Angelina was the proud and loving mother of her three children: Mark Roche and his wife Lori, Cheryl Noack, and Stephen Roche and his wife Susan, for whom she loved.

She is also survived by seven grandchildren who lovingly called her “Nannie”: Megan, Michael, John, Rachael, Danielle, Stephen, and Kellie; three great-grandchildren, Nathan, Angelina, and Gianluca; and a brother, Louis DeSantis of Worcester, along with many others who will sadly miss her. In addition to her parents, a brother, Michael DeSantis, and a sister, Rose Gravlin, predeceased her.

As a dedicated mother, Angelina faced the challenges of motherhood with courage, strength, and unwavering love. Mark, Cheryl, and Steve were her pride and joy. She provided her children with a loving home, guiding them through life, supporting them every step of the way.

Angelina had a warm and welcoming heart and genuinely enjoyed being around people. She had a special way of making others feel comfortable and valued. She loved talking with people, listening to their stories, and whenever possible, lending a helping hand.

Angelina’s greatest legacy, however, will always be the love she gave her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and the entire family. She will be remembered for her strength, compassion, loving spirit, and genuine care she showed to others. Though she will be deeply missed, her love will continue to live on through her family and those whose lives she touched. May she rest peacefully, knowing that she was deeply loved and that her life made a difference.

In keeping with Angelina’s wishes, Funeral services and burial in the family lot in St John Cemetery were held privately.