Gina Marie Ricciardi

Gina Ricciardi of Smithtown, NY passed away peacefully on March 10, 2025 with her loving daughter by her side.

Gina was the beloved daughter of Sicilian immigrants, Giuseppe and Angelina, and the third youngest of eight children. As the youngest daughter, Gina shared a special bond with her parents. Her family lived by the motto Fatte Forte — “Be Strong” — a guiding principle that Gina carried with her throughout her life.

Gina grew up in the Bronx, attended Saint Dominic’s Elementary School, and graduated from Saint Helena’s Business School. Gina began her career as a secretary at Con Edison Electric Company, but her passion for style and beauty led her to open her own hair salon. Gina became a leader in hair trends and was even televised for her innovative work. Later in life, she was a private caregiver for seniors.

Gina’s most cherished roles were that of mother and grandmother. Her love for her family was evident in everything she did. Gina also found love again with Dominic, with whom she shared countless cherished memories until his passing. We take comfort in the hope that they are reunited in the afterlife.

Gina was warmly welcomed into the Scarpinato family by Gertrude, Bernie, Butch, Rose, Erin, and their extended family, who embraced her as one of their own creating memories, surrounded by love and laughter.

A survivor of colon and breast cancer, Gina’s final decade was marked by health challenges, including Parkinson’s. Yet through it all, Gina remained strong and graceful. Her laughter, kindness, and fierce love never wavered. To be loved by Gina was to feel completely seen and cherished — that was her superpower.

Gina is survived by her daughter Angelique, her son-in-law Butch, her granddaughter Nicolette, and her brother Joseph and her extended family and close friends who loved her dearly. Gina’s strength, love, and resilience will live on through all those whose lives she touched. Gina taught us all how to love fiercely and live with strength. Her spirit will forever be a guiding light in our hearts.

To honor Gina’s vibrant spirit, the family invites guests to wear a pop of red.