Mafalda Guidi Masia

Mafalda, age 95, passed away on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at the Chemung County Nursing Facility. Mafalda was born in Waterbury, Connecticut, a daughter of Sante and Matilde Guidi. She was predeceased by her husband of 64 years Pierino C. Masia; brother Gino Guidi; and sister Louisa Pazzaglini. Mafalda is survived by her children and their spouses, Rita and Robert Brown of Elmira, Anthony and Betsie Masia of Rochester, Carlo and Teri Masia of Millerton PA, Caroline Masia of Elmira; grandchildren with spouses, Christian and Theresa Brown, Andrew and Susie Brown, Jonathan and Jessica Brown, Nicholas and Trisha Masia, Luca Masia; great grandchildren, Allison, Jacob, Simon, Ruby, Tino, Louie, and Tommy; several nieces and nephews.

Mafalda and her family moved to Italy when she was a child. She returned to the United States in her mid-20’s. She spent many years teaching conversational Italian at Elmira College. She was also an instructor of Italian at BOCES in Horseheads for over 30 years. Mafalda also studied the French language.

The beauty of nature inspired Mafalda. Her flower and vegetable gardens flourished under her watchful eye. She had a great gift of hospitality; everyone marveled at the hundreds of wonderful meals she created. Her dinners were master pieces of Italian cuisine. Mafalda also loved baking beautiful Christmas cookies, and cake decorating. She volunteered planting flowers around St. Mary’s and St. Patrick’s Churches. Mafalda enjoyed reading about history, art, and culture. Her favorite authors were Mark Twain and Dante.

Mafalda’s heart was filled with the desire to serve God. She loved God, loved her Catholic faith, and had an unconditional love for her family, friends, and neighbors. She truly was God’s humble servant.

Family and friends are invited to St. Mary’s Church, 224 Franklin St. Elmira, on Thursday, October 9, 2025. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m., followed by a 10:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial. A livestream of the Mass will be available through the Facebook page for Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish (https://www.facebook.com/ElmiraCatholic). Committal prayers and interment will follow at St. Peter & Paul’s Cemetery.

Those wishing may remember Mafalda with a donation to the Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish, 1010 Davis St., Elmira NY 14901.

The family sends their thanks to the third-floor staff at the Chemung County Nursing Facility for the wonderful care provided to Mafalda.