Elaine E. Zamarro

Elaine E. Zamarro, 82, of Worcester, passed away surrounded by her loving family at home on Monday, May 15, 2023.

A woman of many talents, Elaine could do everything from sew to cook to garden — and did it all well. A master seamstress, she made her own clothes when she was young, and outfits for her three children. During the COVID pandemic, she made literally thousands of masks adorned with the logos of sports teams, pumpkins, Santa—you name it. She also loved knitting, and her children and grandchildren have the scarves and sweaters to prove it. 

A self-taught and phenomenal cook, she loved nothing more than feeding family and friends. Her masterpiece was pizza, which was enjoyed by people near and far because she always sent people away with more for their friends. 

Her backyard was beautiful, with an abundance of bleeding-heart bushes and Jack-in-the-Pulpit. She spent many happy hours gardening. 

But more than anything, Elaine was the happiest around people. She loved her family, most especially her five grandchildren. They were her absolute pride and joy.

Elaine was born in Worcester, daughter of the late Michael A. and Lena G. (Amorello) Zamarro, and lived there all her life. She graduated from North High School and received her certification from the Salter School. Elaine worked at UMass Medical Center for 22 years, eventually working her way up to Manager for Grants and Contracts. She retired in 2003.

Her other talents included reading and playing the piano. A fighter to the core, Elaine overcame many health challenges in her life. Her family will remember her most for her fierce loyalty. She fought hard and loved hard.

Elaine is survived by two daughters, BethAnn Simoncini of Worcester and TaraLee Simoncini of North Carolina, and a son, Kenneth M. Simoncini and his wife Maureen of Worcester; five grandchildren, Stephanie L. Riendeau, Julia I. Riendeau, Matthew J. Riendeau, Jameson Simoncini and Brody Simoncini; three grandpups, Banjo, Jackson, and Tyson; and many nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her sister Ann J. D’Alessandro and her brother Michael P. Zamarro.

Services for Elaine will be held on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester with a Mass at 11:00 am in St. John Church, 44 Temple St., Worcester.  The burial will be held privately at a later date.  Relatives and friends are invited to calling hours on Tuesday, May 23, from 4-7 pm in the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers, please do something nice for someone in Elaine’s memory.