Alfio Ardizzone

Alfio Ardizzone, 96, passed away Wednesday, October 7, 2020. He was born in Lawrence, MA, the son of the late Jesue’ Vincenzo and Domenica (Benanti) Ardizzone. Within a year of his birth, the family returned to Biancavialla, Sicilia, Italia, where Alfio was educated and remained until 1954 when he became a reverse immigrant and returned to Lawrence, MA.

Alfio would change his career from one in agriculture to an upholstery apprentice for various companies. In 1963, he opened his own company as the sole proprietor of Pride Upholstery. Always a professional, conscientious and meticulous in his finished product, his workmanship was sought after by major companies such as LaBelle Upholstery.

Alfio and his wife Frances started to travel in 1969 despite a “fear of flying.” Their first adventure was to Kentucky where their son was stationed in the Army Reserves. After that there was no stopping them. For the next thirty years, they ventured back to Sicily many times along with being snow birds and a trip to California. He enjoyed his garden, golfing, and recalling stories of yesteryear which he would always relate to a situation in Italy. This would bring a twinkle to his eyes and a broad smile to his lips. Then, he would laugh!

Pre-deceased by his two brothers, two sisters, and their spouses, Alfio leaves behind his wife of 76 years, Frances (Amore) Ardizzone; his daughter, Domenica (Mimi) and her husband Dr. Carl J. Benanti of Methuen; his son, Vincent and his wife Annette (Messina) Ardizzone of North Andover; his grandchildren include: Mark Benanti and his wife Donna, Chris Benanti and his wife Antonella (Toni) all of Methuen, Joy Ardizzone and Hope Ardizzone of New York; his great-granddaughter, Alexa (Benanti) Cutsavage and husband John; along with a great-great-granddaughter, Sophie Grace of New Jersey, as well as a great-grandson, Camren J. Benanti of Methuen.

The family would like to thank the staff at Prescott House C wing for all their love and support.

Donations in Alfio’s memory may be made to or Merrimack Valley Hospice, 360 Merrimack Street, Lawrence, MA 01843 or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
All services were private under the direction of the Cataudella Funeral Home, Methuen.