Ida Viola (Vallante) DiBurro

Ida Viola (Vallante) DiBurro of Methuen, age 93, passed away on March 10, 2026 at Cedar View Healthcare Center with her son by her side.

Born on February 22, 1933 in Lawrence, Ida was the youngest of seven children born to Pasquale and Mariagrazia (Palmieri) Vallante, who had emigrated from Italy. Raised on Chestnut Street, she cherished her childhood among her five older brothers and sister Florence, who doted on her as the little sister. She shared a lifelong acquaintance with her best friend Ann Longo, who lived across the street.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Ida centered her life on her family. While her husband Albert DiBurro served as a firefighter for the Lawrence Fire Department, she stayed home raising their two sons and later became deeply involved at Holy Trinity School in Lawrence. She participated in the Mothers’ Guild, assisted the Franciscan Sisters, and taught kindergarten for many years, where she lovingly served as teacher, caregiver, and “second mother” to her students. She took special joy in organizing their annual graduation ceremonies.

Ida was known for her kind and polite nature, yet she was never hesitant to share her strong opinions. She and Albert shared 61 years of marriage until his passing in 2016. Their home in Methuen, filled with Early American furniture and holiday decorations, was a warm gathering place for family. She was an excellent cook who prepared elaborate holiday meals and enjoyed dining at the Phoenician Restaurant for special occasions. In her later years she found pleasure in collecting porcelain dolls and figurines, shopping at the Dollar Tree, watching religious programs and classic game shows, and staying active on her computer with puzzles, music, and social media.

She was especially dear to her granddaughters Kristin and Kelly, who called her “Mema,” and she was overjoyed by the arrival of her great-grandson Nolan in 2024. She is survived by her son Bob DiBurro and his wife Sandy of Methuen, granddaughters Kelly DiBurro of Tewksbury, Kristin and her husband Ryan Johnson of Methuen, great-grandson Nolan Johnson, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. She leaves behind as well the many former students from her years teaching kindergarten at Holy Trinity School, for whom she held a special and enduring affection.