Michele Torsiello, beloved mother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away Friday January 17, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and friends. 

Michele had a profound impact on us all, especially her friends from the younger generation. Her experiences growing up in the transformative 1960s – marked by social change, activism, and cultural evolution – instilled in her a progressive mindset that inspired all to embrace empathy, creativity, and a sense of purpose in shaping their own futures.

A lifelong Beatles fan, Michele found peace and inspiration in their melodies, and their music was a constant companion throughout her life. She was at Shea Stadium when the Beatles performed and in 1969 Michele was also part of the legendary Woodstock crowd, a testament to her unwavering belief in love, peace, and freedom. She was an avid fan of Broadway and enjoyed all the arts. Her annual Oscar parties were legendary.

Michele was a fearless explorer. She discovered every corner of New York City and found particular joy in the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, one of her favorite destinations. She loved to travel and her "happy place" was where she could hear the ocean waves and feel the warmth of the sun. One of her most memorable trips was to the Florida Keys celebrating her 50th birthday with a cast of characters. 

She took immense pride in her garden sanctuary tucked away on the rooftop of her Hoboken home. In addition to “nourishing” her garden, Michele loved to gather people around her table… whether it was a casual meal or a holiday gathering, her table was a place where people felt the warmth of her heart and the richness of her love. 

Her greatest love was her son Tone - that love was both her foundation and her strength. From the very beginning, Michele poured her heart into raising her son, dedicating herself to his well-being, growth, and happiness. Michele and Tone shared an unspoken promise to always be there for each other. Their mutual dedication was a beautiful testament to the power of family, love, and the unshakable bond between a mother and her child. Her great love for her son Tone was matched only by the love she had for the life her son built with his love Jules, whom Michele adored.

Michele began her career with NY Bell Systems as a customer representative in the 1970’s, but quickly advanced to Advertising Executive at AT&T. Her creativity led her to a lifelong career in Advertising. She won many industry awards and retired from Ogilvy Advertising in NYC in 2020. 

Friendships were foundational to Michele’s life; they were extensive and enduring. She lived with an authenticity that made everyone around her feel like they were part of something special. Her humor and warmth were a gift to all who knew her, and she brought light into every room she entered. Michele greeted us all with that unforgettable hand raised in the sign of peace — a simple gesture that said so much about her kind and loving spirit. 

Her friendship was true, her heart was big, her presence was strong. All of us who were blessed to have a part of the love she shared will move forward holding that love in our hearts forever.

A celebration of Michele’s life is being planned for Spring 2025 near Woodstock NY