Acquaviva

Mary T. Acquaviva, 100, of Butler, passed away Friday, Feb. 14, 2025, at Newhaven Court at Clearview.

She was born March 10, 1924, in Argentine, Pa., and was a daughter of the late George and Sarah Gregory Glaviano, who emigrated from Sicily to America. Mary, along with her siblings, Russell, Sam, Joe, Ann and Celie, grew up in the vibrant South Side neighborhood of Butler.

Mary attended St. Michael Catholic School and Butler High School. She went on to study cosmetology at Butler Beauty School, earning her certification in 1970.

On Nov. 13, 1940, Mary married Joseph Acquaviva. Together they lived on the South Side for 70 years and laid the foundation of a loving family with their sons, Joseph and Richard. Over the years, the family tree flourished, extending its branches to include five grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren.

Mary was first employed at Spaide Shirt Factory, Bobbie Brooks and Prescription Pharmacy. Her journey took a remarkable turn when she and her sister-in-law, affectionately known as Little Mary, cofounded Acquaviva’s Pizza. This Italian pizzeria quickly became a treasure of Butler, cherished by the local community. However, when her mother fell ill, Mary made the decision to step away from the beloved pizzeria to care for her.

At the heart of Mary’s world was her deep-rooted devotion to her family, her profound faith and her active engagement with her community. As a lifelong member of All Saints Parish, St. Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church, Mary contributed significantly to numerous church organizations, including 55 & Alive, Altar Ladies and the Bereavement Group, maintaining her involvement well into her 90s. She was also renowned for her prayer list.

She was also a member of the Cubs A.S.A. Auxiliary.

Mary was equally celebrated for her endless baking of pizzelles, each crafted not just to delight, but to uplift those in need. With every pizzelle, she would weave in two Hail Mary prayers, blending timing, care and devotion with each sweet treat.

As she approached her 100th birthday, Mary’s unwavering dedication continued at Newhaven Court at Clearview, where she found her way into the kitchen, making pizzelles for all her fellow residents. The practice mirrored Mary’s life philosophy anchored in family, faith and service to others.

Mary attributed her longevity and her status as a centenarian to several key practices: waking up every day thanking the good Lord, remaining active, helping others, eating a colorful salad daily, praying and placing family at the pinnacle of importance.

She is survived by one son, Richard A. Acquaviva and his wife, Joyce, of Cranberry Township; five grandchildren, Joseph, Richard, Lisa, Steven and Dean Acquaviva; eight great-grandchildren, Tyson, Joseph, Alycia, Jeffrey, Brittany, Anthony, Alyson and Emily; eight great-great grandchildren, Madison, Noah, Lincoln, Jacqueline, Joseph, Sebastian, Arlo and Luca; and a number of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph, who passed away Nov. 2, 2010; her son, Joseph C. Acquaviva; two great-grandchildren, Angel and Carson; and her six siblings.

ACQUAVIVA — Friends of Mary T. Acquaviva, who died Friday, Feb. 14, 2025, will be received from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday in MARTIN FUNERAL HOME, 429 Center Ave., Butler.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday at All Saints Parish, St. Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church, 432 Center Ave., Butler, with the Rev. Kevin C. Fazio officiating.

Burial will follow in Saint Michael’s Cemetery.

The family will recite the Rosary in church at 9:30 a.m. Monday.

For more information, please visit www.martinfh.net.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.