Bernadina (Polizzi) Taormina

Bernadina Taormina

June 19, 1939 - February 19, 2026

Bernadina Taormina, aged 86, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, at Wellspring Lutheran Services, after a year of declining health. Born on June 19, 1939, in Borgetto, Italy, Sicily. She was a beloved mother, (Nonna) grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, whose generous heart and devotion to her family and community will be dearly missed.

In the 1950s, Bernadina immigrated to the United States, where she attended St. Joseph School and proudly became a naturalized citizen in 1961. With her son Frank, she co-owned Sam's Italian Pizzeria in Milan, MI, and co-owned and successfully managed two other locations in Maybee and Petersburg from 1981 until her retirement in 2014. A true culinary artisan, Bernadina was renowned for her pasta and meatballs, and she especially delighted in baking during the holidays.

Bernadina was a devoted member of her faith community. A former member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, she sang in the choir and, following its closure, became a parishioner of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Her faith was an integral part of her life, guiding her actions and inspiring those around her.

Her interests included cooking and baking, especially during the holidays, where her kitchen was filled with warmth and the aroma of delicious meals. Above all, her family was her greatest joy. She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, often saying, “I love them all.”

She is preceded in death by her parents, Giuseppe and Josephine (Rappa) Polizzi; her brother, Chiccio Polizzi; and her nephew, Salvatore Grippi.

Bernadina is survived by her loving children: Marianna (Salvatore) Frisina, John (Crystal) Taormina, Frank (Annette) Taormina, and Linda Taormina, all of Monroe. She leaves behind four sisters: Maria (Mikele) Grippi, Jovanna (Mazza) Belechi, Nina Solomon, and Mommina (Frank) Romano, all residing in Borgetto, Italy. Her legacy extends to nine grandchildren: John Frisina, Sam Frisina, Maria (Charley) Towne, Johnnie (Kim) Taormina, Ashley (James) Steward, Salvatore (Payton) Taormina, Lino (Karli) Taormina, Amanda (Lester Marks) Friar, and Nick (Alyssa) Friar; as well as twelve cherished great-grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to visit from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Rupp Funeral Home, 2345 S. Custer Road, Monroe, MI 48161, where the Rosay will be recited at 6:00 p.m. Bernadina will lie in state at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 23, 2026, where Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. by Rev. Fr. Mike Anagbogu. Entombment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Monroe.

In honor of Bernadina’s memory, memorial contributions are suggested to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Her legacy of love, generosity, and faith will continue to inspire all who knew her.