Mary Valastro, born on April 17, 1948, in Altamura, Puglia, Italy as Mary Tubito, is best known as the mother of Cake Boss star Buddy Valastro. She migrated to New Jersey with her family where she would eventually raise her children.
Mary was married to Buddy Valastro Sr. until his passing in 1995. Together, they had five children: Buddy Jr., Mary, Grace, Maddalena, and Lisa. In 2017, Mary remarried Sergio Picinich, showing resilience and the ability to find love again after tragedy.
Mary gained fame after appearing regularly on the reality series Cake Boss alongside her son Buddy Valastro. Her warmth and presence on the show endeared her to fans across the globe. She chose to retire in 2010 but continued to make occasional appearances on the show, showcasing her commitment to her family's success in the world of television.
In 2012, Mary announced that she had been diagnosed with ALS, a devastating neurodegenerative disease. This news shook her family and fans alike, but Buddy Valastro rose to the occasion by founding the Mama Mary Foundation in her honor. The foundation aims to raise awareness and funds for ALS research in the hopes of finding a cure.
Mary Valastro's legacy goes beyond her television appearances and health struggles. She is remembered as a loving mother, wife, and now advocate for ALS research. Her resilience in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration to all who know her story.
Overall, Mary Valastro's life has been filled with triumphs and challenges, but through it all, she has remained a symbol of strength and resilience. Her impact on the world goes far beyond her television appearances, as she continues to inspire others to face life's challenges head-on with grace and courage.