Obituary of Ralph J. Lamberti

A life remembered: Ralph Lamberti celebrated by Staten Island’s leaders

Updated: Jun. 16, 2025, 12:07 p.m.

Published: Jun. 16, 2025, 9:08 a.m.

Ralph Lamberti upon his retirement in 2003.Staten Island Advance

By 

Claire M. Regan | For the Advance/SILive.com

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- News of former Borough President Ralph J. Lamberti’s death on Saturday inspired praise for his six decades of public service to Staten Island, and condolences to his wife, Susan, and family.

Ralph Lamberti, the former Staten Island Borough President was honored at Staten Island Borough Hall on February 23, 2023. Borough President Vito Fossella unveiled a plaque proclaiming Ralph Lamberti Day.

Borough President Vito J. Fossella: “This is a sad day for Staten Island as we mourn the passing of former Borough President Lamberti. One of the great leaders in our lifetime on Staten Island, Ralph navigated the halls of government with mayors, governors and legislators, but he never forgot his Italian-American working class roots, and the humble values instilled in him. He regarded Staten Island as a family. He presided over our borough like a dutiful dad. He cared about his fellow citizens and carried the heavy burdens of responsibility on his shoulders day and night.

“A unifying leader in the history of our borough, Ralph dedicated his life to good causes. His work championing our cultural, parks and not-for-profit organizations is legendary and among his many great legacies. To this day, we honor Staten Islanders exhibiting those humanitarian attributes with the Maniscalco Award at Borough Hall — an award Ralph created five decades ago.

“Ralph referred to Staten Island as a ‘town,’ underscoring his ideal of our tightknit small-town nature. It’s no wonder as borough president he established a Harmony Day tradition. Perhaps he wanted us to share his conviction that we Staten Islanders should feel as close and supportive as a loving family.

“The Fossella and Lamberti families have been friends for more than 60 years. We are lucky to have them as loyal friends. Ralph understood the importance and value of loyalty. Mary Pat and I extend our deepest condolences to Borough President Lamberti’s wife Susan and his entire family, and all the people in the extended family he loved — his friends, neighbors and those ordinary citizens whose lives he touched."

Former Borough President Ralph Lamberti, right, joined by his son, Ralph Jr., left, and grandson, Ralph III, for a visit to the St. George office of District Attorney Michael McMahon, second from left, in 2016.Courtesy Michael McMahon

District Attorney Michael McMahon: “A lifelong advocate for Staten Island, Ralph Lamberti was a prolific public servant and devoted family man who dedicated his life to the betterment of our beloved borough. Serving as borough president, Ralph used the power of his office to bring Staten Islanders closer together, celebrating our borough’s burgeoning diversity by creating Staten Island Harmony Day, and championing our borough’s myriad of bucolic pastures and green spaces such as Snug Harbor.

“Often, Ralph’s work was done across party lines — a model for which future generations of civic-minded Staten Islanders can and should follow during these politically turbulent times. I personally witnessed Ralph’s commitment to bipartisanship when he agreed to co-chair my inaugural campaign for district attorney alongside former Borough President James Molinaro in 2015. I will always be deeply indebted to Ralph not only for his support but for his invaluable friendship and wisdom.

“Ralph’s passing leaves an immeasurable loss for Staten Island and my deepest condolences are with his loving wife, Susan, and the entire Lamberti family during this time.”

Alice B. Diamond, Snug Harbor founding member, arts advocate and wife of the late Advance publisher, Richard E. Diamond: “I remember this quote from Ralph: ‘I always wanted to be in a position to help others and I guess that’s why I chose politics.’ His strong leadership brought inspiration and progress to so many organizations. He truly did help others. Dick and I had a great friendship with Sue and Ralph. I’m deeply saddened for Sue and her wonderful family.”

The 37th Annual Neptune Ball in June of 2022: Guests at the Neptune Ball are from the left, Laura Lauria, Hannah Lloyd, Kristen Lloyd, Alice Diamond, Mark Lauria, former Borough President, Ralph Lamberti, Brian Laline, Jessica Baker Vodoor, Susan Lanberti, Richmond County District Attorney, Michael McMahon and live performance artists from Tatiana Entertainment posing as statues. (Steve White for the Staten Island Advance)Staten Island Advance

Caroline Diamond Harrison, CEO of Advance Local and publisher of the Advance/SILive.com: “There is no one who had a greater impact on more areas of Staten Island than Ralph Lamberti. He was a dedicated public servant, promoter of the arts, culture, health care, and so much more to improve the quality of life in our borough. He will be greatly missed by so many who admired him, but none more than his incredible wife Sue, his children, and grandchildren. His imprint will be everlasting.”

Brian J. Laline, executive editor of the Advance/SILive.com: “Ralph Lamberti was a remarkable man and a remarkable political and community leader. He was a working-class guy who had a vision and rose to the rank of a borough president in the greatest city in the country. He was the confidant of mayors and governors. He understood the mammoth New York City budget better than anyone. But what so many admired about Ralph is he never lost his love of family — his own and the family of Staten Island. He supported our non-profit institutions and had a special love of all our culturals — especially Snug Harbor. Ralph Lamberti epitomized what community is all about. I will miss his wise counsel.”

Alfred Cerullo III, president and CEO of the Grand Central Partnership: “Ralph was always kind to, and supportive of, me and my family — especially my Dad — throughout the years. I have many memories of Ralph and not enough space to share them all, but today I recall so clearly his desire to unite neighborhoods across the borough leading him to create an annual Harmony Day at Snug Harbor, which brought together our Island’s diverse communities through food, music and art. And I remember him asking me and Gracelyn Santos to emcee it for many years in a row. He had such a legacy across our Island as an elected official and through his volunteer work — but most of all through his family. My thoughts and prayers and deepest condolences go out to Susan and their children at this very sad time.”

Dr. Daniel J. Messina, president and CEO of Richmond University Medical Center: “I had the opportunity to create a rather unique friendship with the Lambertis. It overlapped with my relationships with other outstanding Staten Island leaders like Allan Weissglass and Alan Bernikow. I was very fortunate they entered my life because I benefitted from their wisdom and counsel. I became good friends with the Lambertis during visits to their home for a slice of apple pie and a cup of tea. Susan and Ralph were an incredible tag team, so well liked and always ready to listen and pitch in. As Ralph’s illness unfolded, my role evolved and I assisted with healthcare guidance as needed. As time went on, the status of his health never took away the smile on his face. Ralph Lamberti was a true community champion – but the most precious part of his life was his family. The support they provided when he needed it most was perfect in so many ways. I send condolences to the Lamberti family, and will cherish the memories I made with them.”

Dr. Gracelyn Santos, dentist and Advance life and culture columnist: “Ralph’s kindness over the past 35 years – especially toward my parents – will never be forgotten. It was through him that I met my husband, and we were honored to have him stand beside us as godfather at our wedding. For many years, he invited me to co-emcee the Harmony Street Fair at Snug Harbor alongside Fred Cerullo – an experience I cherished for the spirit of unity it celebrated, bringing together thousands of Staten Islanders over two days, regardless of background or culture. That spirit, and Ralph’s unwavering commitment to it, speaks volumes about the kind of leader and human being he was. Years later, he welcomed me onto the Snug Harbor board, sparking a passion for volunteerism that continues to shape my life today. Staten Island has suffered a tremendous loss, but Ralph’s legacy will live on for generations to come. My heart is with Susan, Ralph, Jim, Mark, Kristin, and his grandchildren during this difficult time.”

Dr. Brahim Ardolic, president of Northwell Staten Island University Hospital: “Ralph Lamberti was a tireless advocate for Staten Island and a true champion for Staten Island University Hospital. His leadership helped shape the future of our institution, and his passion for this community will continue to inspire us. On behalf of the entire SIUH family, we extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones. Ralph was more than a partner to this hospital; he was family, and his legacy will live on in the lives he helped us touch.”

Former borough president Ralph Lamberti received his Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Wagner College.

Dr. Richard Guarasci, president emeritus of Wagner College: “Ralph Lamberti was a sterling leader in the community and for Wagner College. He co-founded [with Lou DeLuca] the DaVinci Society, which raised over $1 million in scholarships and built a remarkable program in the arts and Italian-American culture. He was a dear friend, a strong believer in Staten Island and a faithful ally for Wagner College. Sue Lamberti was his partner, equally important in helping Wagner become a strong neighbor in the community.”

Dr. Jeffrey Doggett, president of Wagner College: “As a new president, I learned so much about the linkage between Wagner and Staten Island. There are few who built a more lasting legacy and tradition than Ralph Lamberti. Among his many great works, is his founding of the DaVinci Society, a merging of Staten Island, Wagner, Italian-American tradition and service to others. Wagner students who have received the DaVinci Society Scholarship, and the college writ large, have benefited from his commitment and dedication. He will be missed, but never forgotten.”

Robert Scamardella, chair of the Wagner College DaVinci Society: “Ever the innovator, Ralph, a proud Italian-American and staunch supporter of Wagner College, was a co-founder of the DaVinci Society. Under his leadership, over $1 million in scholarships were awarded to worthy Italian-American students. The Society is just another example of the extraordinary positive impact bestowed by Ralph Lamberti on his community. A Staten Island icon, he will be missed.”

At the 15th annual DaVinci Society Scholarship Dinner at the Hilton Garden Inn, are from left, Former Borough President Ralph Lamberti, retired State Supreme Court Justice Philip G. Minardo, Richmond County District Attorney, Michael McMahon, Assemblyman Matt Titone and State Supreme Court Justice Orlando (Lindy) Marrazzo Jr. Sitting is Susan Lamberti. (Staten Island Advancec/Carol Ann Benanti)Staten Island Advance

Surrogate Judge Matthew J. Titone: “I knew Ralph all my life, through my parents and having worked with him on the Snug Harbor Cultural Center Board of Directors. Staten Island owes him a huge debt of gratitude. Snug Harbor would not exist without his leadership and stewardship. Ralph had the political will and power to ensure this fantastic dream never died by the wayside. He was a true champion, a mentor, a rabbi of sorts, someone I could count on for good advice when I needed it. We have lost a true old-school lion Democrat.”

Louis R. Tobacco, president of Monsignor Farrell High School: “On behalf of the entire Monsignor Farrell High School community, I offer our heartfelt condolences on the passing of former Staten Island Borough President Ralph Lamberti. During my time as Student Government president at Farrell, I had the privilege of marching alongside him when he served as grand marshal of our Homecoming parade — a moment I will always remember. Ralph was a tireless and devoted public servant whose deep love for Staten Island left an enduring legacy. His leadership, integrity and commitment to community will never be forgotten. May God grant him eternal peace and may his family find comfort in the impact he made on so many lives.”

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Kenneth Mitchell, executive director of the Staten Island Zoo: “The Staten Island Zoo family mourns the passing of Borough President Ralph Lamberti, a champion of the Zoo throughout his career in public service. On behalf of our Board of Trustees President William Frew, our board members, staff and volunteers, we express our sincere condolences to the Lamberti family and honor Borough President Lamberti’s legacy of leadership, support and kindness. His impact on the Zoo is deeply rooted. From education programs to capital projects, he supported our initiatives large and small, recognizing the Zoo as an educational and recreational resource for the Staten Island community. The Ralph J. Lamberti Tropical Forest wing is named in his honor in recognition of his many contributions. He helped to ensure that the Zoo and all our cultural institutions were part of the fabric of our community. Borough President Lamberti will be sorely missed. We express our respect and gratitude for his service, his love for Staten Island and his profound role in shaping the Zoo’s educational mission for generations to come.”

Anthony Ferreri, former president and CEO of Staten Island University Hospital: “I first met Ralph when I joined the SIUH board in 1995. As executive vice president, he took me under his wing immediately — that was his style. He became a mentor, guiding me along the way. He helped me navigate the waters, and through that learning process, led me to the board of the Snug Harbor Cultural Center. He was selfless, always ready to help in my role as SIUH president and CEO. Ralph looked after his friends, and I will miss him terribly. He was a great man, an intelligent man.”

Anita Laremont, Snug Harbor board chair, and Jessica Baker Vodoor, Snug Harbor president and CEO: “Ralph Lamberti was a visionary and a true cultural pioneer whose impact on Staten Island continues to resonate deeply with us at Snug Harbor. He was among the first to recognize the power of celebrating our borough’s rich cultural diversity through vibrant public festivals. His creation of the Harmony Street Fair was more than just an event — it was a bold statement about the importance of unity, inclusion and community pride. Ralph’s leadership laid the foundation for the kinds of cultural celebrations we continue to host today at Snug Harbor. His example inspires our ongoing commitment to honoring Staten Island’s unique identity through festivals that bring people together in joy and shared experience. His legacy will live on in the work we do, and his absence will be felt by all who were touched by his vision and generosity of spirit. Ralph will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.”