Irene (Ricci) Palombo

     Irene L. (Ricci) Palombo, 96, Beloved Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, and Faithful Servant to Her Community
     Irene L. (Ricci) Palombo passed away peacefully at her home in Watertown on May 2, 2025 — just as she wished, in her own bed, surrounded by comfort and love. She was 96.
     A lifelong resident of Watertown, Irene was the daughter of the late Giustino and Phyllis Ricci and devoted wife of 54 years to the late John Palombo. Together, they built a life rooted in love, family, and faith — a legacy that lives on through generations.
     She is lovingly remembered by her children, Cynthia Arone of Watertown and John Palombo and his wife Robin of Ashland, MA; her brother Eugene Ricci and his wife Laurena of Watertown; and is predeceased by her siblings Ralph Ricci and his late wife Sue and Richard Ricci and his wife Lois.
      Irene was the proud grandmother of five and great-grandmother of seven: Patrick Arone & his wife Melissa of Waltham, and their children Patrick and Abigail; Nicholas Arone & his wife Alexandra of Sharon, and their children Nicholas and Gabriella; Ashley Gregg & her husband Adam of Franklin, TN, and their daughters Juliana, Isabella, and Clara; Sara Palombo of Ashland and Amy Palombo of Ashland.
     A 1948 graduate of Watertown High School, Irene later worked in the guidance department at Watertown schools before serving many years as a secretary at Newton North High School, where she retired.
     A woman of deep Catholic faith, Irene was a lifelong parishioner at Saint Patrick’s Church and a devoted volunteer at the St. Patrick’s Food Pantry. Her selfless spirit, warm heart touched many lives.
     She also belonged to the Ladies Piave Fume Italian of Watertown where she enjoyed bowling and bocce.
     Irene will be remembered for her grace, her faith, and the deep love she gave to her family and community. Her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

   Family and friends are welcome to come celebrate Irene’s life by gathering for visiting hours on Thursday May 8, 2025 from 10-11:30 AM followed by a 12 NOON Funeral in St. Patrick’s Church, 212 Main St. Watertown. Burial to follow in Ridgelawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Irene’s memory may be made to Watertown Catholic Food Pantry, Watertown, MA.
 

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