Mary I. (Simone) Bergantine, 98, of Worcester died peacefully Saturday May 7, 2011 in the Christopher House. Her husband Philip Bergantine predeceased her. Mary is survived by a daughter, Andrea Bergantine and her fiancé William Benson of Worcester; a granddaughter, Macaulay Dow; a brother, Domenic “Babe” Simone; and two sisters, Amelia Simone and Lucy Zarette; many nephews and nieces. She was predeceased by three brothers, Jack Simone, Michael Simone, and Thomas Simone, and a sister Marie Oliveri.

     Mary was born in Worcester daughter of the late Bartolomeo and Angelina (Baldino) Simone and has lived here all her life. She worked as a waitress for many years at the former Black and White Restaurant, and also was the owner along with her husband of ‘Auntie Mae’s’ Restaurant on Shrewsbury St. for many years before she retired. Mary was a life member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel-St Ann Church, and also the S. S. Madonna Addorlorata Society, Our Lady of Sorrows. Mary had a great zest for life and loved talking to people, she loved her Shrewsbury St. community and was one of our most colorful characters on the street! She will be dearly missed by her family and friends. The family would like to thank the Christopher house staff especially Roberta and Martha. And also Msgr. Rocco for his many visits with Mary.

     Mary’s funeral will be held Monday May 16, from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. with a Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 AM in the Church of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel-St. Ann, 24 Mulberry St. A Calling hour will be held from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM on Monday morning only. Interment will be in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Flowers may be sent or contributions made to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel-St Ann Church Renovation Fund, 24 Mulberry St., Worcester, MA. 01605.