Graziella "Grace" (Riggio) Prestera

The beautiful Graziella, “Grace” (Riggio) Prestera of Wayland passed away on January 7, 2026, with her beloved daughter Sabrina by her side.  She was born in Locri, Reggio Calabria, Italy on March 13, 1953 to the late Salvatore and Emilia (Marzano) Riggio. Her and her family immigrated to America in the 60s, first settling in Springfield then Medford and finally moving to Wayland.  Devoted wife for over 44 years to the late Vincent Prestera and loving mother of Sabrina Prestera of Wayland.  Cherished sister of Piero Riggio of Italy, Antonio Riggio of Italy, Ines Riggio of NY, Marisa Russo of NY, and the late Franca Russo, Rosa Rondeau, and Vincenzo Riggio.  Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. 

Graziella, also known to her closest family and friends as Pina. She lived a beautiful and full life.  Graziella worked as a hair salon owner for over 30 years with locations in Medford, Arlington and Marlboro.  After she retired from the beauty industry, she took on a new role working in a kitchen at Wellesley College and sharing her passion for cooking for over 14 years.  During her free time, she loved to cook, craft home décor, shop, and garden in her beautiful yard.   Another passion of Graziella’s was to travel with her husband and daughter.  They spent time going to Italy and Medjugorje for a Catholic Pilgrimage.  She looked forward to exploring New England, whether it be in the mountains or the coast enjoying a lobster roll.

From a young age she took pride in her appearance; she loved fashion and had an amazing sense of style.

Graziella was a very generous woman who loved her Italian heritage and loved to share her traditions with friends and family. She was loved by all who knew her.   She will be greatly missed and never forgotten, especially by her daughter Sabrina and her beloved cat Charlie.

Funeral from the John Everett & Sons Funeral Home 4 Park Street Natick Common on Monday January 19th at 9am.  Followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Patrick Church 44 East Central St. (Rt 135) Natick at 10am.  Interment St. Patrick Cemetery, Natick.  Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend.  Visiting Hours on Sunday January 18th from 12-4pm in the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Grace may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital 501 St Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 or St. Anthony Shrine 100 Arch St Boston, MA 02110 or to a charity of your choice.  For directions and guest book please visit www.everettfuneral.com

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Graziella "Grace" (Riggio) Prestera, please visit our Tree Store.