FITZGERALD, Mary "Stella" Iafrate, 81, of Palm Springs, California, formerly of Follansbee, WV, passed away June 1, 2012 in Palm Springs, California following a long illness from Colon Cancer.
She was born November 2, 1931 in Follansbee, WV to the late Luigi and Michelina Cardamone Iafrate. She was a Catholic by Faith and a retired Golf equipment salesperson for Pete Carlson Golf and Tennis Shop in Palm Springs, California. She was a Catholic by Faith.
In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her husband William Fitzgerald Sr. and one brother Anthony Iafrate and one brother in law Web Wilkerson.
She is survived by one son William Fitzgerald and Donna of Palm Springs California, three grandchildren, Jennifer Fitzgerald Wilson, Aryn Tollison and Tara Hernandez, and four great-grandchildren and one on the way also survive. Three brothers Loretto "88" Iafrate and his wife Madeline of Follansbee, Deacon Albert "44" Iafrate and his Wife Theresa of Warwood, WV and Gino "Bimbo" Iafrate and his Wife Doris of Follansbee, WV. One sister, Antoinette Wilkerson of Follansbee, WV.
Among Stella's accomplishments, was her talent for entrepreneurship. In the late 1950s she designed dresses and opened a dress shop in 1962 in Whittier, California with the late Jayne Mansfield, as a client and friend. Stella also managed Pete Carlson's Golf and Tennis Shop in Palm Springs, California. She was a Golf Professional playing with celebrities in many tournaments. Amateurs improved their game with Stella's tutoring. Her love for the sport was second to none.
The Family will receive friends and relatives Thursday June 7, 2012 from 11:30 until the time of the Mass at 12 noon, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Follansbee, WV, with Father James Deviese and Deacon Albert Iafrate as concelebrants. A private Interment will be held at the convenience of the family. Local arrangements by Reasner Funeral Home 1515 Charles Street, Wellsburg, WV.
Online condolences may be made at Reasner-ofWellsburg.com
