Catherine "Jean" Lizzi

Catherine Jean Lizzi (Furfaro), 93, peacefully passed away while sleeping in her home on June 3rd 2024. Jean was the wife of the late Cosimo Lizzi, who passed away in 2020, after 72 years of marriage. She was born in New York City on April 7th 1931, and was the daughter of the late Joseph Furfaro and Rosina Futia.

Her parents had moved to American from Calabria, Italy, where she visited for the first time, at the age of 7. Her husband Cosimo, moved to Albany, NY from the same town in Calabria, in 1947. They were engaged and married by November 21st, 1948. Jean left her academic pursuits at Cathedral High, and her career with the Albany Light Opera, to be a dedicated wife. In 1953, Jean and her husband acquired Maplewood Farm in Guilderland, NY; they had a successful business where she used her green thumb, and customer service skills. Their home and land were a gathering place for so many with whom they enjoyed sharing their harvest; their Italian traditions; and their Catholic faith. Jean & Gus were the Godparents to 27 children, and continued to foster a deep and meaningful connection with their community, both in Italy, and in the United States. Jean enjoyed cooking and entertaining guests; she loved music, flowers and birdwatching. She had an amazing sense of humor, and always created a welcoming atmosphere in her home.

Jean is survived by her beloved son, Cosimo Lizzi Jr. of Albany NY; her cherished grandson, Michele Lizzi (Francesca Iemma) of Siderno Italy and granddaughter, Maryjean Ariel Lizzi of Auburn NY; her treasured great-grandchildren, Claudio Lizzi and Mila Maciulewicz, who love and miss her dearly already; as well as many dear relatives and friends. Jean was loved and considered a great friend by so many, and was blessed to know how loved and cherished she truly was.

Family and friends may call Monday June 10th from 9:00 to 10:30 AM at St. Madeleine Sophie Church, 3500 Carman Rd, Schenectady, NY 12303. A Mass of Catholic Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 AM. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, 1389 Central Ave Colonie, NY 12205.