Tina Cafaro

Tina Cafaro passed away on February 27, 2025 peacefully in her home with her beloved husband of 67 years, Frank Cafaro and her cherished canine companion, Oliver, by her side. She is survived by her three children and 10 grandchildren.

In her life she was a home maker until her children were grown. She was an ardent member, volunteer  and employee of her parish,  St Phillip and St James RC church.  She worked tirelessly there as Religious Educator, Founder and  Editor of The Gabriel News Letter, organizer of Ignatian and other retreats, Parish Council, Liturgy Committee, Coordinator Parish Outreach,  Coordinator Office of Spirituality  and finally Board of Trustee member.  She served her community from 1970-2002.  In addition she was a Lay Chaplin at St. Charles Hospital .  She was also devoted to the  Sisters of St Joseph and worked at the Learning Connection, helping in the program to teach English as a second language.  In June of 2021 she was invited to become an Agregee of the community, an honor she valued and cherished.

She received the Medal of Service, St. Agnes Award, and attended many courses at Fordham University regarding spirituality and Liturgy. She helped create “Open Moment”, a prayer and study manual for Catholic Social Ministry for the Diocese of Rockville Center with Executive Director William McNamara.  She created and oversaw a monthly meeting of Circle of Women to discuss social justice.

She loved giving her energy and time to the enrichment and betterment of those she knew,  and equally important, those she was just meeting for the first time.  She loved reading, needlepoint, nature, cooking and most of all her family.

She was a beacon of light often for those who suffered, never shying away from grief, sadness, and loss.  She was often the first call many would make upon the passing of a loved one, a divorce or any sadness they could not carry alone. Although a “tiny bird” her shoulders were mighty.