STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Mary Ann Mazzone, a Staten Island health-care advocate whose quiet leadership shaped decades of compassionate care for people with HIV/AIDS and disabilities, died Wednesday, Dec. 31. She was 80 years old.
Mazzone served in senior leadership roles at the Sisters of Charity Health Care System and St. Vincent’s Catholic Medical Centers in West Brighton, where colleagues remember her principled approach to patient-centered care.
During the 1990s and early 2000s, when fear and discrimination surrounding HIV/AIDS were widespread, Mazzone expanded services at Bayley Seton Hospital in Stapleton. Under her leadership, the hospital developed outpatient primary care, an AIDS dental clinic, inpatient services and adult day programs.
“Mary Ann led with integrity and humility,” said Jayne Cooper, a social worker, colleague and longtime friend. “She never sought recognition, but her leadership changed lives — especially for people who were often overlooked or stigmatized.”
From left to right, Jayne Cooper, Mary Ann Mazzone and Cris Marchionne photographed together in 2019.(Courtesy of Cris Marchionne)
Cooper said Mazzone believed no one should be turned away from care. “Dignity was not optional — it was a right,” she noted.
Mazzone also advocated for ethical decision-making in health care, particularly around end-of-life care. She supported advance directives and chaired ethics discussions, helping families and providers navigate difficult decisions.
Beyond her work within health-care systems, Mazzone served as the first president of the board of Person Centered Care Services, helping transform the organization from an idea into a mission-driven program focused on integrity, inclusion and community belonging.
Cris Marchionne, Mazzone’s niece and the executive director of PCCS, announced her aunt’s passing in a statement honoring her legacy.
“She taught me that leadership is not about authority — it’s about responsibility, ethics and showing up for people when it matters most,” Marchionne said. “I would not be the leader I am today without her wisdom and example.”
Mary Ann and Vincent Mazzone with their first grandchild, Alyssa.(Courtesy of Cris Marchionne)
Mazzone’s advocacy extended to people with disabilities, pushing for access to health-care coverage, in-home supports and community-based services.
Those who knew her said she worked quietly, focused on outcomes rather than recognition. Her satisfaction came from knowing people received the care, respect and opportunities they deserved.
Mazzone is survived by her husband, Vincent; her sons, Martin and Matthew; their wives; and their children.
“While her loss is deeply felt, her legacy continues in the lives she touched, the systems she helped shape and the many leaders she mentored along the way,” Marchionne added.
Visitation is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 2 from 2 to 7 p.m. at Martin Hughes Funeral Home, 530 Narrows Rd. South.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, Jan. 3, at 11 a.m at Our Lady Queen of Peace R.C. Church, 61 New Dorp Lane.