Serafina Caniglia

Serafina Caniglia, of Newtown Square, PA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at the age of 85. She was the cherished wife of the late Mario Caniglia. Together, they built a beautiful life and a close-knit family that was the center of Serafina’s world.

She was the loving mother of Anna Caniglia and Tony Caniglia (Donna), and the proud Nonna to Mario, Antonio, Natalie, John(Cristina), and Carley. Her joy multiplied as she became Bisnonna to Olivia, Miles, Nevan, Nalani, Valentina, and Isaiah. Serafina was also a devoted sister to Joseph Avato (Phyllis), Immaculata Avato, and was predeceased by her beloved siblings Maria DiValerio, Acheropita Meringolo (Cosimo), and Domenico Avato. She was also a loving sister-in-law to Maria and Falco DiMedio, Tony DiValerio, Angelina Avato, the late Vincenzo and Concetta Caniglia, and the late Clara and Quirino Capuzzi.

Born on January 28, 1940, to Maria (Carmela) and Angelo Avato, Serafina emigrated from Italy to the United States at the age of 18. After settling in Pennsylvania, she met and married Mario and began their life together in Ardmore and later settled in Havertown, where they raised their family with love and care. In their later years, Serafina and Mario built a warm and welcoming home in Newtown Square, where they retired and continued to share their love with family and friends.

Serafina was a gifted cook and an extraordinary baker, known especially for her legendary chocolate chip cookies. Her home was a place of warmth, where family gathered and love was baked into every meal. She found her greatest happiness in gathering loved ones around the table, nourishing them not just with food, but with her generous spirit and affection.

She will be remembered for her endless love, her welcoming heart, and the way she made everyone feel at home. Her legacy lives on in the traditions she passed down, the memories she created, and the family she adored.

Relatives and friends are invited to her visitation on Saturday, August 23rd; 9:30- 10:15 a.m. followed by her Funeral Mass 10:30 a.m. ALL IN CHURCH at St. Anastasia Church, 3301 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073. Entombment Sts. Peter & Paul Garden Mausoleum

To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Serafina Caniglia, please visit our Tribute Store.