Anna Petrillo (Venezia) of Quincy passed peacefully on September 14, 2026, at the age of 93. She was a loving, kind, and thoughtful woman whose warmth, generosity, and easy conversation touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Born on June 13, 1933, in Boston, Anna was the beloved daughter of the late Ignacio and Maria Venezia. Raised in Boston’s North End by her devoted parents, who emigrated from Sciacca, Sicily, she carried throughout her life the values of faith, family, hard work, and generosity that defined her Italian heritage. She grew up surrounded by the traditions, close bonds, and strong sense of community that remained central to her throughout her life.
Anna graduated from Girls’ High School in Boston before beginning her career at John Hancock Financial Services, where she worked for nine years. She later continued her professional life as a data administrator at Boston College, where she spent many years helping students and supporting the university community. Anna took great pride in her work and valued education and lifelong learning. Her kindness and steady presence left a lasting impression on the many people she encountered during her years of service.
After marrying the love of her life, the late Seymour Petrillo, in 1956, Anna and Seymour began their life together in Boston’s North End before making their home in Quincy, where she lived for 50 years. Their marriage was one of enduring love and devotion until Seymour’s passing. Anna was also deeply rooted in the North End, where she was raised and where she always felt at home. She carried the spirit of that neighborhood with her wherever she went.
Above all else, Anna’s greatest joy was her family. She was the devoted mother of Paul Petrillo of Quincy and Christopher Petrillo and his wife Dawn of Braintree. She was the cherished grandmother of Dillon Duncan and his wife Alex, Alexandrea Petrillo, and Andrew Petrillo, and she was blessed with two great-grandchildren. Her love extended beyond her immediate family, and she was known by many as a second mother whose compassion, guidance, and open heart offered comfort and strength to those around her.
Anna is also survived by her siblings, Salvatore Venezia of Quincy, Lillian Mustone of Charlestown, and Domenic Venezia of Braintree. She was predeceased by her brother, the late Vito Venezia. She was the treasured sister, aunt, cousin, and friend whose presence brought joy and reassurance to family gatherings and everyday moments alike. Her home was always welcoming, and there was always a place at her table for anyone in need of a meal, a conversation, or a little encouragement.
Anna had an adventurous spirit and a lifelong love of travel. She loved to cook, go to the movies, and share stories with family and friends. Very outgoing by nature, she enjoyed talking with everyone she met and had a remarkable ability to get along with all. Her heart was always drawn to Sicily, the homeland of her parents, and she returned there many times to visit relatives and celebrate the traditions of her heritage. She also treasured trips throughout Europe, to the islands, to Disney, and a memorable Mediterranean cruise celebrating her and Seymour’s 25th wedding anniversary.
A woman of remarkable courage, Anna faced a long and valiant battle with cancer, yet she never allowed her illness to define her. Her strength, grace, and concern for others remained an inspiration to all who knew her. Her Catholic faith was the cornerstone of her life, and as a devoted parishioner of Sacred Heart Church, she lived her faith through quiet acts of kindness, humility, and devotion to others.
Anna Petrillo will be remembered for her loving heart, her thoughtful nature, and the deep devotion she showed to her family, friends, and faith. Her life was a beautiful reflection of love, resilience, and generosity, and her memory will be cherished always.