Paola Di Piazza

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Paola Di Piazza "Pauline," of Madison, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at the remarkable age of 103, surrounded by her loving family. Her life spanned more than a century, a testament to her strength, resilience, and a heart that was truly bigger than any.

She was born on September 10th, 1922, in Giardinello Sicily, the daughter of Giuseppe and Anna Maria (Randazzo) Caruso. Paola met and soon after wed Vito Di Piazza, they were married on June 5th 1949 in Giardinello Sicily. In 1958, Paola and Vito moved to the United States, settling in Madison, Wisconsin, where they raised their family. Rooted deeply in her Sicilian heritage, she carried with her a love of family, tradition, and faith that shaped every chapter of her life.

Paola was an amazing cook whose meals brought generations together around the table. Feeding others was one of her many ways of caring, and no one ever left her home hungry. Paola also had a great love for gardening and sewing. For many years, she worked in alterations at Woldenbergs, where her exceptional talent was highly sought after and admired by many.

Paola’s legacy lives on through her children, Peter Di Piazza, Rosalie Hunt, and Anna Maria Di Piazza; her brother, Nino Caruso; her grandchildren, Shannon, Vito, Catherine, Russell, Edward, David, Devon, and Tiegon; her great-grandchildren, Vito and Dominic; and her many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was the heart of her family, a guiding presence whose love will continue to be felt for generations.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, January 12, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Saint James Catholic Church, 1204 Saint James Court, Madison, with Father Drew Olson presiding. Visitation will precede the Mass at 10:00 a.m.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of A Grace Hospice for the wonderful care Paola received during her final days, and to the staff of Eden Vista, for their loving care and who were truly like family to her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin, 5003 Tradewinds Parkway, Madison, WI 53718, in Paola’s memory.

We welcome you to share your thoughts and memories in Paola's online guest book.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434