Massimiliana "Massi" Watson (Dossena), beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on July 1, 2026, at the age of 86, surrounded by the love of her family after a courageous battle with dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Born on January 10, 1940, in Milan, Italy, to Emilio Giuseppe Dossena and Ginevra Cornelia Zacchetti, Massi was the beloved sister of Marilena, Maria Luisa, Maria Rosa, Luciano, and Tiziano. They were raised in a home filled with art, as their father was an accomplished and highly respected artist. Despite the hardships of war and the post-war years, Massi's stories of her childhood were always filled with joy, love, and deep admiration for her beloved Italy.

At the age of 27, she married Edoardo Scapinelli. In 1969, she and "Edo" moved to New York in search of new opportunities and a brighter future. Together they welcomed two daughters, Sandy and Barbara. Although they divorced in 1985, they remained close friends until Edo's passing in 2003.

In 1989, Massi remarried Milford Watson Jr., whom she lovingly referred to as the love of her life. Known to many as "Mel," he was a proud Irish American who married a proud Italian woman. Together they embraced and celebrated their different cultures, discovering just how much those differences enriched their lives. They shared a love of traveling, especially to Mexico. Mel passed away in 2006 after a battle with lung cancer. Their love and life together remained an important part of who Massi was, and her family finds comfort in knowing they are together once again.

To some of her closest family members, Massi was affectionately known as "Bella Cappelli," meaning "beautiful hair" in Italian—a loving nickname given to her by her beloved son-in-law, Ryan. It was a tribute not only to her beautiful hair but also to her Italian heritage and the grace and beauty she carried throughout her life.

Massi was a gifted seamstress whose remarkable talent allowed her to create beautiful garments entirely from scratch and expertly tailor clothing to a perfect fit. Her hands carried her through a lifetime of exceptional craftsmanship, creating pieces that reflected the patience, precision, and pride she brought to everything she did. Her work was admired and respected by all who knew her.

Family was at the center of Massi's life. She possessed deep compassion and an unwavering devotion to those she loved. She found joy in life's simple pleasures—dancing, music, going to the movies, and sharing her homemade meals with family and friends. Among her most cherished dishes were chicken cacciatore, lasagna, polenta, tiramisu, and, of course, a wonderful cup of espresso.

Massi is survived by her beloved daughters, Sandy Scapinelli and Barbara Campogiani; her sons-in-law, Gary Tischler and Ryan Campogiani; her cherished grandchildren, Brandon, Travis, and Spencer; and her adored great-grandchildren, Azazel and Isarra. She is also survived by her beloved siblings, with the exception of Luciano, who passed away in 2007, as well as many nieces and nephews who treasured her laughter, humor, encouragement, and nurturing spirit.

Massi will be remembered for her strength, resilience, unwavering devotion to her family near and far, and the love she gave so freely throughout her life. Her generous heart, warm smile, and enduring spirit will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Riposa in pace, Massi.

Rest in peace, Massi.