Joan R. Speranza (née DiStefano), 92
Lifelong Staten Islander, Devoted Wife, Mother, and Community Member
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Joan R. Speranza (née DiStefano), 92, of Port Richmond, passed away peacefully on Tuesday at Staten Island University Hospital, North Campus. A loving wife, devoted mother, and dedicated member of her community, Joan lived a life defined by faith, family, and service.
Born and raised in Port Richmond, Joan was a lifelong Staten Islander. She attended P.S. 21 and graduated from Port Richmond High School. Early in her career, she worked as a secretary at City Hall before marrying the love of her life, Rocco “Rocky” Speranza, on May 26, 1956. After starting a family, Joan chose to leave the workforce to raise their three children, embracing her role as a full-time mother with love and dedication.
Joan was an active parishioner at St. Roch’s Church, where she served as a lector and was an officer in the St. Ann’s Society and the church’s senior group. She also volunteered with the St. Roch’s School PTA, fondly remembered for her contributions to their many bake sales.
She had a passion for knitting, baking, and cooking for her family, and found joy in crafting with her friends. Together with her husband, Joan traveled extensively, exploring Europe, China, Canada, Greece, Turkey, Spain, and numerous destinations throughout the United States.
Joan will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family. Her warmth touched the lives of all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed.
She is survived by her two sons, Frank and Rocco, and her daughter, Janet Speranza.
A funeral service will be held on Monday from Cherubini McInerney Funeral Home, Port Richmond, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. at St. Roch’s Church. Interment will take place at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Brighton.
1289 Forest Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10302
Sunday, October 19, 2025
3:00pm - 7:00pm 
4 thoughts on “Joan R Speranza”
To: Family of Joan
Our deepest sympathies to your family on your loss of Joan . She was a wonderful cousin to my Father John DiScenza , he always talked about all the good times he spent with her and his uncle Beo . May she rest in peace in the hands of the Lord. Amen
I’m so sorry to hear about Joan. I had so many beautiful conversations with her.
My mom and I enjoyed many events with her at St. Ann and church events.
Prayers and Love to the family.
Janet,
Please accept my sincere condolences during this difficult time. Always remember the good times. Mom will continue to look over you.
Marion (Kolbasuk)
To the Speranza family,
I’m very sorry for your loss. I recently got to know Joan at Sunrise assisted living. She was a good friend to my mom, Elizabeth. I was fortunate to get to know her over the past 2 months. I was very impressed and inspired by her strong faith in God. May eternal rest be granted to her and may perpetual light shine upon Joan. May she rest in peace. May the good Lord be with all of you during this difficult time.