BIOGRAPHY

Pezza was born as Emma Rotondo in Providence, Rhode Island as one of 10 children born to Francesco and Carmina (Masi) Rotondo.

In 1931, Pezza married her husband, Carmine, after they were introduced by her brother. They had two children, Ginny and Constance. The couple owned and operated their own construction business, C. Pezza & Son Inc., from 1935 onwards; Pezza did not retire until she was 93 years old.

Pezza was deeply religious, and also enjoyed cooking and watching her favourite television programmes: “Everybody Loves Raymond,” “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy.”

Pezza died in Johnston, Rhode Island on 10 May 2021 at the age of 110 years, 41 days. She was survived by her two children, as well as six grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren. Her sister, Angela McCord, reached the age of 105, dying in 2023.

RECOGNITION

At the time of her death, Pezza was Rhode Island’s second-oldest known resident after Barbara Barton (1908 – 2022).

Pezza’s age was verified by Stefan Maglov and validated by LongeviQuest on 23 July 2024.

ATTRIBUTION

• 106 years of faith and still counting for Our Lady of Grace parishioner Rhode Island Catholic, 1 June 2017
• Johnston’s Pezza celebrates 108th birthday in style Johnston Sun Rise, 4 April 2019
• Nothing stops a birthday Johnston Sun Rise, 2 April 2020
• At 109 years old, Johnston woman oldest Rhode Islander to vote in presidential election WPRI.com, 2 November 2020
• Johnston woman celebrates her 110th birthday WJAR, 30 March 2021
• Pezza celebrates 110th birthday with parade, key to the town Johnston Sun Rise, 2 April 2021
• Emma Pezza Obituary (2021) Nardolillo Funeral Home Inc.
• Obituary for Emma (Rotondo) Pezza Nardolillo Funeral Home Inc.

GALLERY