Yonkers Mourns the Loss of Lucia Travato

Lucia Trovato, a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, great-aunt, and friend to many, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, and dedication. Born on November 12, 1951, to Thomas and Madeline Trovato, Lucia was a lifelong resident of Yonkers who devoted her life to her family, community, and the city she cherished. She was the proud sister of Vincent, sister-in-law to Anne Marie, and a devoted aunt to Erika (Brian) and Paul (Stephanie). Her great-nieces and nephew—Sienna, Daya, Evelyn, and Thomas—were the lights of her life.

Lucia’s humility and kindness defined her character, and she always found joy in the simple things. She fiercely loved her family and made sure that her niece, nephew, and their children felt cherished at every turn. Her spirit of kindness extended beyond her family, touching countless lives in Yonkers and beyond.

A passionate scholar, Lucia earned her Bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages from Iona College, followed by a Master’s from Columbia University’s School of International Studies. Her love for travel and learning took her across the globe, including time spent as an exchange student in Bologna, Italy. Her passion for learning and deep curiosity about the world led her on countless adventures throughout Europe. Lucia had a special place in her heart for Italy, but also found beauty in every corner of the world she visited. Whether exploring the valleys and cliffs of Ireland or wandering through the church-lined streets of Spain, Lucia embraced each journey with an open heart and an appreciation for the different cultures and experiences that enriched her life and those around her.

Lucia’s professional career was varied and distinguished. From serving as a Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Jacob Javitz to working with Congressman Bruce Caputo, her commitment to public service was unwavering. She also served as Executive Director of the American Council on International Personnel and Director of the Italian Museum and Cultural Center.

But it was her work for the City of Yonkers that truly fueled her passion. Beginning as a Community Outreach Coordinator in the Office of the City Council President, Lucia went on to become a Senior Office Assistant with the Department of Public Works and ultimately joined the Office of the Mayor. During her time there, she became a vital force, writing thousands of Mayoral Proclamations, planning city-wide events, and working tirelessly to honor the people and culture of Yonkers.

Beyond her professional achievements, which were numerous and distinguished, Lucia also dedicated much of her life to her love of reading. For years, she served her local library, where she nurtured her passion for literature and shared it with others.

A proud Italian-American, Lucia was deeply involved in the Yonkers Columbus Day Parade Committee for over four decades, where she served as President, Trustee, and Member. She also lent her leadership to the Enrico Fermi Educational Fund and the Fine Arts Orchestral Society, always striving to celebrate and preserve her Italian heritage.

Lucia’s love for her family, dedication to her community, her passion for travel and learning, and deep connection to her heritage will be remembered by all who knew her. Her gentle soul, humble nature, generous heart, and fierce loyalty will live on in the hearts of her family and the city of Yonkers. May she rest in peace, honored by the countless lives she touched with her spirit forever journeying through the places she loved most.

The family is requesting that memorial contributions be made in her memory to the Foundation for the Yonkers Public Libraryearmarked for the Grinton I Will Library, where she worked part-time as a Library Page for many years:

Link://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E114318&id=1.

Send in your memories of Lucia for next week to dmurphy@risingmediagroup.com