Mary Jane Pizzitola

Mary Jane Porretto Pizzitola, beloved mother, grandmother and friend passed away at the age of 81 on January 14, 2023 at home surrounded by her family in Houston, Texas.

She was born March 5, 1941 to Salvador and Jeanne Porretto in Galveston, Texas. Her parents were accountants who lavished attention on their cherished only child. Mary Jane had a delightful childhood filled with art, dancing, and music. She married Tannie L. Pizzitola Jr. in 1960 and graduated from the University of Texas with a B.A. in Education.

Mary Jane dedicated herself to raising her three children with joy, enthusiasm, and unconditional love. In addition to being a domestic goddess, she was involved with her community. For many years she volunteered with the Junior League of Houston and her children's schools, played tennis, belonged to book clubs, and delivered home-cooked meals to anyone with a sniffle. 

Mary Jane was an avid gardener, a dog owner, an excellent painter with many years of study at the Glassell School of Art, a fashion icon and a superb chef. In between these activities Mary Jane travelled the world with her family and dearest friends. She was the perfect traveling companion, always ready for new experiences and new adventures. Her ragged passports are a testament to her zest for life.

Mary Jane's greatest attribute was her capacity for friendship. Her kindness, generosity and positive outlook never wavered. Her passion for entertaining was unsurpassed; fortunate family members and decades-long friends of all ages were consistently hosted in her jewel box home.  A perfect day for Mary Jane involved going to a museum, wining and dining her friends and bragging about her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Salvador and Jeanne Porretto, and her former husband Tannie L. Pizzitola Jr. She is survived by her three children: Jelyn Pizzitola of San Antonio, Marnie Pizzitola of Granbury and Tannie L. Pizzitola III of Houston; her sons-in-law, Patrick Hancock and Lt. Col. Shane Mecasky; and her grandchildren Isabella Hancock and Alexander Hancock.

The family will hold a private memorial. In lieu of flowers and in keeping with Mary Jane's generous spirit: kiss your loved ones, hug your friends, be kind to strangers and pet a dog.