In Loving Memory of Palma Reali

March 28th, 1931- August 4th, 2026

Palma was born on March 28, 1931, in Ferentino, Italy, where she lived until she married the love of her life, Gino Reali, on February 18, 1947. Their partnership would last a remarkable 78 years—a lifetime of shared dreams, adventures, unwavering devotion, and love. In 1952, Gino and Palma made the brave decision to move their young family to America, carrying with them the hope of building a strong foundation for generations to come.

Palma’s presence was always felt, but never announced. She was most concerned with making sure everyone was happy, had a full stomach, and left with an empty plate. She was best known through her incredible cooking, which friends and family alike would gladly travel any distance to enjoy again. Her famous pizza, the bread she would bake and then hand out to all who knew and loved it like the precious gift it was, and countless other dishes were treasured gifts from her kitchen.

Her generosity extended far beyond her home. As founding members of the Rockford Italian Sister Cities Alliance, Palma and Gino dedicated themselves to sharing their Italian heritage with others. They spent countless hours teaching Italian traditions, volunteering at Festa Italiana, and opening their home and hearts to any willing to hear a story from ferentino. Meetings were often held at their home by popular request simply to enjoy Palmas cooking and be sent home with a loaf of bread.

Palma spent much of her life as a master seamstress, creating beautiful pieces for those around her. Those closest to her now hold dear to us the special pieces she created such as her daughters wedding dress, her children’s and grandchildren’s baptismal and first communion outfits, and more. Heirlooms that will pass her legacy forward.

Most importantly, Palma’s presence is still felt by those who love her. They will always remember her sweet yet stubborn determination to put others before herself, her uncanny ability to prepare a favorite dish right before your eyes while somehow still keeping a secret ingredient, and the boundless love she had for her family—a love that could be felt from miles away.

Palma is survived by her sister Elvia Cantagallo, her daughters, Gina Wynn (Peter) and Anna Drog (Jim); her daughter in law Ann Reali, and her grandchildren, Michael Drog (Stephanie), Laura Reali, and Raquel Wynn.

She was welcomed into Heaven by many beloved family members, most especially her recently passed husband, Gino Reali, and son, Mario Reali.

Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Rockford Italian Sister Cities Alliance or the Alzheimer’s Association in Palmas memory. Help fight Alzheimer's. Donate here.