Raffaela ?Rae? Taormina passed away peacefully on December 29, 2011, at home with her family by side.

Born April 3, 1921, in Italy, she came to America and became an American citizen in 1929.

Raffaela was preceded in death by her parents, Emanuele and Christina Barrella; her husband, Joseph Taormina; brothers, Frank and Donald Barrella; her brothers-in-law, Samuel (Norma), Anthony, Jack and Ernest (Mary) Taormina, as well as a daughter-in-law, Terri Taormina.

She is survived by her children, Josie Taormina, Salvatore (Barb) Taormina and Frank (Kate) Taormina; her grandchildren, Julie Taormina, Jaimie (Justin) Harlow and Christine (Steven) Matiko; her great-grandchildren, Calista Taormina, Acy and Aidan Matiko, and Taylor and Bailee Harlow. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Anna Taormina, Elizabeth Taormina and Dorothy Barrella, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Raffaela resided in Monaca until her death, and she and her husband owned Monaca News for 25 years. Raffaela will be fondly remembered for listening to her music while stirring a pot of sauce for her beloved family.

Friends will be received Sunday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. in the Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Ave., Monaca, where parting prayers will be offered Monday at 9:30 a.m. followed by a mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Monaca.

Interment will follow in the parish cemetery.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 1409 Pennsylvania Avenue, Monaca, PA 15061.

To share online condolences, get directions and other information, please visit simpsonfuneralhome.com.