Alleged domestic violence victim Maria ‘Nonna’ Dimasi commemorated at Catholic funeral

The family of Maria Dimasi, who was allegedly killed by her husband, remember here “selfless” and food was her love language.

The family of Maria ‘Nonna’ Dimasi, who was allegedly killed by her husband, wore white and purple at her funeral in a stand against domestic violence.

On Saturday December 2, the 85-year-old Italian Australian grandmother was found dead in her Findon home, where she had lived with husband Frank Dimasi for 60 years.

Mr Dimasi, aged 91, was later arrested by police and charged with murder.

Police prosecutors said Mr Dimasi, who is understood to suffer from dementia, was intoxicated when he allegedly stabbed his wife to death.

Pallbearers at Maria Dimasi’s funeral wore white ribbons and purple ties in a public statement against domestic violence. Picture Dean Martin

The funeral of Maria ‘Nonna’ Dimasi. Picture: Dean Martin

Mourners donated to the Zahra Foundation instead of bringing flowers. Picture: Dean Martin

Mrs Dimasi’s white coffin, adorned with a bouquet of roses. Picture: Dean Martin

In a statement, the Dimasi family said Nonna was “the epitome of goodness” and “selflessly gave her time to help those in need” through her work at the family’s meal charity Nonna’s Cucina.

“We hope her life and legacy of community service will be a beacon to inspire others,” they said.

“She was taken from us all too soon. We must now be the voice for Maria, to keep each other safe and live in harmony.

“Our family has chosen to wear white ribbons, and the pallbearers’ purple ties, at today’s funeral to show our commitment to ending domestic violence against women.

“We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the community for their outpouring of love, messages of support and prayers in this difficult time.”

Murder victim Maria "Nonna" Dimasi with grandson Stefan Dimasi at Nonna’s Cucina. Photo: Facebook

At 1pm on Thursday, about 500 mourners filed through the dark brown doors of St Ignatius Catholic Parish, Norwood.

Many wore black and could be seen hugging each other on the lawns in front of the church.

Mrs Dimasi’s white coffin, adorned with a bouquet of roses, was carried into the church hall by family members wearing purple ties, including grandson Stefan Dimasi.

Inside, family members holding back tears delivered eulogies.

”As anyone who knew her can attest, Nonna Maria loved to spoil her grandchildren,” said granddaughter Chantel Dimasi.

“Most of all, with love and warm hugs, ones we will never truly forget.”

Grandson Daniel Ieraci said food and cooking was “her love language” and “how she showered affection” on others.

Instead of bringing flowers, the family requested mourners donate to the Zahra Foundation, a domestic violence charity, and Nonna’s Cucina.

Mr Dimasi is currently undergoing psychiatric assessment and his case has been adjourned pending inquiries into his mental state.