Elvira (Risolo) Nuzzolilo

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The two fell in love, married, and shared 40 wonderful years together, building a home grounded in love and commitment.

Elvira Ann "Vera" (Risolo) Nuzzolilo, 87, a longtime resident of Worcester, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a proud legacy of hard work, devotion, and family strength.

Born in Worcester on February 9, 1939, Vera was the beloved daughter of the late Frank and Olympia (Tuccio) Risolo. Raised in a modest Italian home, Vera learned early on the values of resilience and deep family roots. She was a gifted and accomplished dancer who pursued her passion all the way to New York City, realizing her dream of performing as a Radio City Rockette.

After her time in New York, Vera returned home to Worcester, where her life took its next beautiful chapter. At a local wedding, she met the love of her life, Daniel T. Nuzzolilo. The two fell in love, married, and shared 40 wonderful years together, building a home grounded in love and commitment. Following Daniel's passing, Vera became the undisputed matriarch of the family—the steadying force, guiding light, and anchor for everyone around her.

An endlessly hard-working woman, Vera poured her energy into both her family and her community. While raising her four children, she also dedicated decades to healthcare, working first at Worcester City Hospital and later spending many years at UMass Memorial Hospital until her retirement.

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Vera’s greatest pride was always her family.

Vera's greatest pride was always her family. She is survived by her four children: Kathleen Petrie of Worcester; Sharon Keogh and her husband, Bob, of Auburn; Daniel Nuzzolilo and his wife, Kerri; and Joseph Nuzzolilo of Worcester. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Heather Petrie, Jonathen Petrie, Vincent Keogh and his wife, Whitney, Nicholas Keogh, Sophie Nuzzolilo, Matthew Nuzzolilo, Anthony Nuzzolilo, Olivia Nuzzolilo, and Juliet Nuzzolilo; her dear sister, Rosetta Risolo; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and her beloved husband, Daniel, Vera was predeceased by her brother, Louis Risolo, and her sisters, Marie Risolo and Francis Noyes.

A period of Calling Hours will be held for Elvira on Friday, August 7, 2026, from 10:00am until her Funeral Service beginning at 12:00pm all in the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. Elvira will be laid to rest immediately following services in St. John’s Cemetery, Worcester.