Evelyn V. Mazzitelli, a respected educator from Staten Island known for her dedication to teaching and community service, passed away on January 5, 2024, at the age of 98. Her impact on generations of students and her commitment to education earned her the prestigious Teacher of the Year award in 1984.
Mazzitelli was born and raised on Scribner Avenue in New Brighton, Staten Island, where she grew up with her siblings. She cherished those early memories, sharing them with her children and grandchildren throughout her life. Her educational journey began at Curtis High School, followed by Hunter College, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education.
A Legacy in Education
Over her distinguished career, Mazzitelli taught at two local schools, P.S. 34 and P.S. 13. Her contributions extended beyond the classroom, as she also held an administrative role at P.S. 13. Mazzitelli’s dedication to her students and her innovative teaching methods were recognized when she received the Teacher of the Year award just two years before her retirement in 1986.
In 1952, she married Louis Mazzitelli, and together they had two daughters, Lois and Eva Lynn. The couple enjoyed 35 years of marriage until Louis passed away in 1987. Mazzitelli remained an active and engaged member of her community throughout her retirement. She participated in various organizations, including the Women’s Auxiliary at St. Vincent’s Hospital, now known as the RUMC Auxiliary, and the Women’s Auxiliary at Historic Richmond Town.
A Passion for Learning and the Arts
Described by her family as an enthusiastic reader, Mazzitelli also had a profound appreciation for the arts. She frequently attended theatrical performances at Wagner College, Broadway, and New Jersey’s Paper Mill Playhouse. Her love for learning and culture left a lasting impression on her family and friends.
Mazzitelli is survived by her brother Michael, her daughter Eva Lynn, son-in-law John Hayko, grandchildren Benjamin Louis and Emily Rose Forman, and great-grandson Henry Christopher. The family expressed their gratitude to the healthcare team that cared for Mazzitelli, particularly Dr. Jomarie Zeleznik and the staff at Safeharbor Healthcare Services.
The funeral service for Mazzitelli will take place at Sacred Heart Church on January 12, 2024, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.. She will be laid to rest at Moravian Cemetery, with a committal service scheduled from 11:45 a.m. to noon.
Her legacy as an educator and community member will be remembered fondly by those whose lives she touched.
