Lily Castellano Midulla's Obituary
Lily Castellano Midulla, 98, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025 surrounded by the love of her family. Born and raised in Ybor City, Lily lived a long, beautiful life filled with so much love, laughter, and remarkable strength.
She was predeceased by her husband, the love of her life, Tom Midulla, and her son-in-law Ron Brown. She is survived by her devoted daughter Carol Brown, her favorite (only) son Frank Midulla, grandchildren Jessica (Bill Lanzetta), Ronnie Brown, Zach Midulla, and Jett (Sarah) Midulla, niece Mary Stella Mclain, and great-grandchildren Vincent and Lily Lanzetta, Dylan, Riley, and Blake Brown.
Lily began her career as a talented hairstylist before joining her husband in running Midulla’s Restaurant, known for its famous Midulla’s sausage and deviled crabs. Even after the restaurant closed, Lily continued making Midulla’s sausage until she was 90 years old for local friends and neighbors who simply couldn’t go without.
Her Sunday sauce was nothing short of magical—a huge simmering pot that brought together family, neighbors, and friends throughout her lifetime. Those Sunday dinners became a cherished family tradition, filled with warmth, stories, and laughter.
As a child, Lily loved roller skating, often reminiscing about how much fun she had and the joy it brought her. That playful spirit never faded; she carried it through her life, finding happiness in simple pleasures and in being surrounded by the people she loved.
Her grandchildren meant the world to her. She attended countless sporting events, dance recitals, and FaceTime calls—never once complaining, even if it meant a two-hour drive through a Vermont winter to watch a one-hour hockey game.
Lily enjoyed her daily walks throughout her neighborhood up until just weeks before her passing. She cherished the people she met along the way, always taking time to stop, talk, and share a smile.
A strong-willed, loving, and vibrant woman, Lily lived life to the fullest. She loved to play dominoes, looked forward to her yearly trips to Vermont, and even surprised everyone by riding a jet ski in her later years.
She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy lives on through the family and friends she loved so fiercely, the stories she told so vividly, and the meals that brought everyone together. Lily’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and the beauty of family.
There will be a celebration of life that is currently pending.
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