Anita Anna DiNapoli, obituary
ROCKLAND — Anita Anna DiNapoli, 89, a woman defined by her grace, tireless work ethic, and deep devotion to her family, passed away on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Sussman House in Rockport.
Born on July 22, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, Anita was the daughter of the late Frank and June (Schonieg) Caronna. She grew up in the vibrant energy of Brooklyn, where she completed her education. Upon graduating, her striking presence led to a two-year career as a model with the prestigious William Morris Agency in New York City.
On April 22, 1956, she married the love of her life, Anthony DiNapoli Sr. While on their honeymoon, the couple discovered a house in Rockland, Maine, and fell in love with the area. They decided then and there to make it their permanent home, beginning a new chapter that would span seven decades.
In her earlier years, Anita was the heart of her home. As a devoted mother, she was deeply involved in her children’s school activities and always present in their lives. Her talents were both practical and creative; for many years, she lovingly handmade all of her children’s clothes.
As her family grew, Anita entered the Rockland workforce, bringing her signature dedication to every role. She worked for 10 years at the Van Baalen’s Outlet Store. In 1981, she and her husband purchased Jordan’s Market, which they owned and operated together for 11 years. Later, Anita became a familiar face at the Rockland Walmart. She worked there from the store’s opening day, first in the office and later as an Invoice and UPC Clerk until her retirement in 2003.
She found great joy in life's simple beauties, including gardening, crafts, and her lifelong passion for sewing. Those who knew her will remember her as a woman of quiet strength and immense capability.
Anita is survived by her loving children: Mary Ann Gargan and her husband, Daniel Jr.; Susan Vanorse and her husband, Harold; Jean Marie Tweedie and her husband, Eric; Anthony DiNapoli Jr.; and Robert DiNapoli and his wife, Jennifer. She is also survived by her brother, Frank Caronna Jr.; her grandchildren, Adam Tweedie, Callyn (Tweedie) Decker, Nicole Vanorse, Holly Vanorse Spicer, Margaret Vanorse, Annie Reed, Danielle Gargan, and Joseph DiNapoli; many great-grandchildren; and extended family members who will miss her dearly.
A graveside committal will be held at a later date.
To share a story or memory with Anita’s family, please visit their Book of Memories at bchfh.com. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock St., Rockland.

