Obituary of Constance "Connie" Gerbino

Constance Gerbino, a native Staten Islander died suddenly but peacefully on May 22, 2026, in the presence of family. Lovingly known as “Connie” she was the daughter of Benedetto and Saveria (nee Sciortino) Squatrito. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her beloved husband, Richard (“Dick”) Gerbino. The youngest of eleven children, she was also predeceased by her four brothers and six sisters. 

She married her beloved husband, Richard (“Dick”) Gerbino on February 5, 1955, and the two started their family and remained inseparable until his death in 2010.

She is survived by her daughter Doreen (Robert) Cavagnaro of Staten Island, N.Y, and Richard (Maria) Gerbino of Colts Neck, N.J. and her grandchildren, Stephanie (Salvatore) Leone, Robert (Cherie Pfeiffer)Cavagnaro and Daniel Cavagnaro (Michelle Honaker), Richard (Allison) Gerbino, Justin (Kati) Gerbino and Michael Gerbino (Melanie Nunez), her great grandchildren, Olivia, Giulia and Salvatore Leone, Nora Cavagnaro, Madeleine, Giuliana and Ella Gerbino. She is also survived by her dear brother-in-law, Anthony Hudzik and a great many nieces and nephews all well-loved and always remembered.     

A life-long resident of South Beach, Connie graduated, with honors, from New Dorp High School as a member of the Class of 1948 and began her career working in a local law office, and by virtue of her intellect, ambition and ability she quickly became an accomplished legal secretary. 

While still a young mother, and with her acquired skills, she enrolled in college and completed a course of study that earned her a position with the New York City Board of Education. Within a short time, she received a permanent appointment as the Executive Secretary to the Principal at P.S. 11 in Dongan Hills, where she not only attained consistent recognition for her skills, but found contentment in her work and many lasting friendships.

It was an occupation with a schedule that allowed her to fulfill her other full-time and more demanding vocation as a wife and mother of two school-agedchildren. A role she cherished and prioritized her entire life. 

A traditional Italian cook, she prepared delicious meals with no written recipes relying solely on instinct and what she had learned watching her mother and older sisters. She took pride in hosting holiday dinners, and nothing gave her more joy than the love of family shared around her table.

In her retirement, she, along with her husband, Dick, cared for their grandchildren with great love and affection attending countless ball games, concerts,recitals, and ceremonies, proud and happy to share in the lives of their extended family.

Together they were members of the Arrochar Friendship Club enjoying the company of many friends; traveling, socializing and making many lastingmemories. After Dick’s passing, she remained active, planning functions and attending events, comfortablethere among people for whom she deeply cared.    

Always an avid reader, for many years she regularly read a book a week. An excellent seamstress with an eye for fashion, she was a talented knitter who lovingly crafted many beautiful outfits gifted and worn by her grandchildren and great grandchildren, that will be kept in the family and will now be cherished all the more. 

Despite the passing of years and increasing physical limitations that come with age, she continued to read, to knit and to participate in the lives of those she loved.And by strength of will and the grace of God, she remained sharp witted and dignified until the moment she left us. And for those who knew her and loved her, she will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. Rest in peace dearest mother in the arms of the Lord.