Catherine "Kitty" Ann Spiteri

Catherine “Kitty” Spiteri

Catherine “Kitty” Spiteri, 92, of Placida, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on April 8, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in New York City on January 10, 1934, to Angelina (Scevola) and Joseph Colletti, Kitty was known from a young age for her ambitious spirit and generous heart. She worked at a local five-and-dime store to help support her family, often returning home with small treats to share.

On September 28, 1952, she married the love of her life, Joseph Spiteri, and together they built a beautiful life centered on family. They raised six children—Joseph, Kathryn, Charles, Susan, Frank, and Anthony—and settled in Commack, Long Island in 1959. After the birth of their sixth child in 1964, Kitty began working as a school bus driver for the Commack School District. She especially loved driving kindergarten children, who eagerly boarded her bus knowing she always had a treat waiting. She later drove for Commack High School South, where one of her students was Rosie O’Donnell from the Class of 1980.

Family was the heart of Kitty’s life. She created a home filled with love, structure, and tradition, where everyone had a role and no one ever went without. Cooking and baking for her large family was her gift, and holidays—especially Christmas and Thanksgiving—were treasured occasions. Her home was always full, with tables and chairs stretched to accommodate family and friends, and an abundance of food and desserts to share.

After retiring, Kitty and her husband moved to Port St. Lucie, Florida in 1996. In 2013, she relocated to Placida to be closer to her children, where she enjoyed making new friends, dining out, playing cards, and sharing her love of cooking. Her cherished recipes were compiled into a cookbook so her traditions could live on.

Kitty will be remembered for her quiet strength, unwavering determination, and remarkable courage. She inspired those around her by facing life’s challenges with resilience and grace.

She is survived by her sister, Ann DeMaio; her brother, Anthony Colletti (Diane); her children, Joseph, Kathryn, Susan (Thomas), Frank, and Anthony (Virginia); her grandchildren, Stefanie, Nicole, Jenna, Danny, and Anthony; and her great-grandchildren, Alana and Ethan. She is also lovingly remembered by many extended family members, dear friends, and devoted caregivers.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph Spiteri, her son, Charles Spiteri and her granddaughter Rachel Spiteri.

In Lieu of Flowers:
St. Francis of Assisi Food Pantry
5265 Placida Road
Grove City, FL 34224

Tidewell Foundation
3550 S. Tamiami Trail
Sarasota, FL 34239