By the family

May 28, 2025: Jean Kathryn Foley Rizzo, who was born on October 3, 1936, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida, surrounded by love and prayer.

She was born in Far Rockaway, New York, the youngest of four children to Kathryn McTigue Foley and Max Henry Foley. Jean was a proud graduate of the Convent of the Sacred Heart on 91st Street and went on to attend Manhattanville College, where her lifelong Catholic faith and love of learning were nurtured.

In 1958, she married Thomas Dignan Rizzo, M.D., at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Together, they raised their family in Bronxville, New York, where Jean was a devoted member of St. Joseph’s Parish and the heart of her home. She later enjoyed time in Sea Island, Georgia, and most recently resided in St. Simons Island, Georgia.

Jean was predeceased by her beloved husband of 52 years, Dr. Thomas D. Rizzo, her infant son Robert Gerard, and another son who died at birth.

She is survived by her six children: Thomas (Margaret), Peter (Charlotte), James (Patricia), Kathryn (J.L. English), William (Elisa), and Francis. She leaves behind 24 cherished grandchildren: Thomas (Jamie), Kathryn Jean (Justin Green), Elizabeth (Andrew Bechtold), Carolyn (Max McKinley), Meredith, Hilary, Alex, Matthew, Madeline, Abigail, Peter, Luke, Jean Kathryn, Leo, Nancy, Michael, Lucy, William, John, Sara, Daniel, Timothy, Grace, and Clare. Her legacy continues in her two great-grandchildren: Margaux Green and Robert Bechtold.

Jean was also a beloved aunt and is deeply mourned by her many nieces, nephews, their children, and a wide circle of friends and extended family.

Known lovingly as “Grammie,” Jean had a gift for making every visitor feel special. Her grandchildren hold dear memories of time spent together in Sea Island, making treats, enjoying Mickey Mouse pancakes, marshmallows, and feeling completely loved.

She took great pride in her family, tracking every birthday, milestone, and achievement. Jean could recount the latest news about each of her children and grandchildren with a sparkle in her eye and a deep sense of joy.

Her Catholic faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was particularly proud—if a bit surprised—by the election of an American-born Pope.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. William Catholic Church in St. Simons Island, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Jean’s memory to one of her favorite causes:

-Tunnel to Towers Foundation 

-Wounded Warrior Project