May 10, 2007

Real-Life Mary Valli Passes Away

May 10th, 2007

Sad news to report: The real-life “Mary Delgado”–Mary Valli, Frankie Valli’s first wife, passed away on April 28 at the Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, NJ.

Mrs. Valli was born in Newark and resided in Nutley before moving to Caldwell 15 years ago. She is survived by her daughter Toni Valli, three grandchildren, and a brother and sister. She was preceded in death by her two daughters, Celia and Francine Valli.

For Mrs. Valli’s complete obituary, please visit NJHometown.com.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Toni Valli and her family at this time.

46 Comments »

  1. my condolences to the Valli’s and all the people who love them.

    Comment by Antonijan — May 11, 2007 @ 3:29 am

  2. Ten siblings, if I’m counting correctly. Wow, sounds like a big Italian family in the old tradition. I’m going to be listening to those lines of her’s about ‘family’ a little differently now. EVERY life is a fascinating story. Rest in peace.

    Comment by Audrey — May 11, 2007 @ 9:26 am

  3. We offer our condolences to Mary Valli’s family, especially Frankie. During the shows, the audience finds out about Nick Massi’s passing in 2000, now there probably will be another emotional moment if the National tour cast announces Mary’s passing.

    We’ll definitely pray for them and keep them in our hearts.

    Comment by Mike B. Magbaleta — May 11, 2007 @ 12:41 pm

  4. my condolences to Mary Valli’s family and to Frankie. Rest In Peace: Mary Valli.

    Comment by Anna — May 11, 2007 @ 7:39 pm

  5. R.I.P. Mary Valli.

    Comment by Kristina — May 12, 2007 @ 10:03 am

  6. I just saw the show 5/8/09. So sorry for the difficult life for all concerned. May Peace surround Mary, Celia, and Francine.

    Comment by Patricia Spinella — April 10, 2009 @ 7:37 pm

  7. Saw the show Friday, 10/04/2009. Fantastic! How sad about Francine and now her mother.

    What a wonderful man Frankie is. Never knew his life story until now.

    You have done the Italians poud Frankie!

    Mauro Tondina

    Comment by mauro Tondina — April 14, 2009 @ 8:57 am

  8. [...] absolutely love, the scene where Frankie and Mary Delgado (Mary Valli, R.I.P.) break-up and he sings My Eyes Adored You as she sits on the stairs, whiskey in hand and [...]

    Pingback by Stay! Ahhhh, just a little bit longer… | Little Pink Book — May 7, 2009 @ 3:47 am

  9. My dearest Mary, I didn’t know you had gone to live with God until now, I never got to thank you for being there for me & my son when no one else was. I Will always love & keep you in my heart may you rest with the lord finally in peace.

    Comment by Angel — June 3, 2009 @ 11:30 pm

  10. Show the show on 10/14/10 fantastic! Love the Four Seasons.

    I would spend the money to see it again!

    Very funny, sad, and touching.

    I hope Frankie has kept in contact with his only living daughter from his first marriage.

    The cast of Jersey Boys were absolutely terrific…Philadelphia, PA.

    Comment by Patricia — October 17, 2010 @ 9:40 am

  11. Saw the show on 10/14/10 fantastic! Love the Four Seasons.

    I would spend the money to see it again!

    Very funny, sad, and touching.

    I hope Frankie has kept in contact with his only living daughter from his first marriage.

    The cast of Jersey Boys were absolutely terrific…Philadelphia, PA.

    Comment by Patricia — October 17, 2010 @ 9:42 am

  12. Mary, I am so sorry to hear of your passing. You took me in like a foster daughter when me and Fran were friends. You loved a full house and you were the quintessential mother to a whole bunch of us young people. I remember you as simple and kind and happy. Thank you for being a good part of my life, I will never forget you Fran and Celia.

    Comment by Tamara — January 22, 2011 @ 4:15 am

  13. Met Toni Valli in high school. A good human being. Saddened to hear of her mother’s passin. Bet Toni doesn’t remember me but strlled thru mud hole with her an remember he innocence and bright blue eyes. Toni I wish you joy, peace, happiness and all the good things that life has to offer you. Ms Cerone

    Comment by Ms. Cerone — August 19, 2011 @ 5:24 am

  14. Thank you for keeping this music alive..I am so excited to see your movie that Clint Eastwood produced about my favorite group of all times…

    Comment by Rose Mary McKenzie — June 17, 2014 @ 12:04 pm

  15. Saw the movie today……….Thanks to all for keeping the sound alive……..Kisses for Frankie……

    Comment by Rosemary Davies. — June 20, 2014 @ 3:48 pm

  16. Just saw the movie “Jersey Boys”. Loved it! I loved The Four Seasons and Frankie Valli! Greatest group EVER!

    Comment by Jean Mills — June 21, 2014 @ 6:14 pm

  17. I just saw the best movie ever, Jersey Boys it was wonderful Wow what a story! Thank you Frankie Valli you are a wonderful person.

    Comment by Dawn Jomant — June 22, 2014 @ 9:38 am

  18. Just saw the movie tonite-6/22/2014. What a story! Sorry to learn of the passing of Mrs. Valli. The Four Seasons was one of my favorite ’60′s group. You could really get into their music. Too bad we have to all get older and it can’t stay 1964. Their music will never get old.

    Comment by Glenn Darr — June 23, 2014 @ 12:03 am

  19. I’m not to good writing things down, but here I go. Had to see this movie. Loved the history on their lives and their music. Just wished they would of shown him married three times and talked about his other children. At the end I wished that they would of shown their ages now and where they are today. I was raised up with these songs. My favorite one song is Sherry baby, Guess cause my name is Shari!!!! I would go back to watch the movie to who has not seen it yet.. I give this movie a 9 .. It is a must see if you love the songs back than . Thank you for making this movie, Shari

    Comment by Shari — June 23, 2014 @ 7:51 pm

  20. Saw the movie this weekend. So good. Very well put together and based on the play based on their lives.
    The spouses, children, etc. are private people.
    I AM SURE the real first wife was not like she was portrayed in the movie. Regarding her death in 2007, poor lady no doubt died, 50 % upong losing her two daughters 6 mnths apart. Now, she is reuntied with her two girls. I am sure she lived for her 3rd and last child and daughter.

    Comment by Sgirl — June 24, 2014 @ 8:48 pm

  21. My sister & I saw Jersey Boys 6/25/14…We LOVE, LOVE, LOVED IT!!! A must see movie for sure…and definately a KEEPER when it comes out on DVD. This movie was great from beginning and to the end. I didn’t want the movie to be over. The talent, music & singing was PHENOMENAL!!! OUTSTANDING JOB Clint Eastwood!!! You-Guys & Gals ROCK and have earned yourselves an OSCAR!!! Hope to see Jersey Boys when they are near the Wakefield, Virginia area…Sincerely, Diane Barlow :)

    Comment by Diane Barlow — June 27, 2014 @ 12:42 pm

  22. Just saw Jersey Boys tonight and loved every minute of it including the songs during the rolling of the credits. The audience was singing and clapping along with me. Cannot wait for DVD to come out so I can watch it over and over. Thank you Clint Eastwood for a great movie and the Rawhide clip was fun too:)

    Comment by Mary Siegel — June 30, 2014 @ 2:36 am

  23. Just saw the movie Jersey Boys for the second time.Was so interesting as well as so touching to see what their lives were like on the other side of their songs.Makes you appreciate their music even more.It must have been hard for them to watch their life story because, in hindsight, there is always something we wish we could have done differently…no matter whom we are OR how perfect we may perceive ourselves to be.And to have those “mistakes” replayed and displayed for all to see, well…Anyway, was an awesome movie and I’m glad I took the time to see what it was like on the inside looking out.Glad to read up that there are still 3 surviving members (Valli, DeVito and Gaudio).Now I can personally thank them for the sacrifices they made just so the rest of us could make memories with their music.May they feel the renewed love and interest that the movie has uncovered.

    Comment by Sydaddio — June 30, 2014 @ 7:06 am

  24. FRANKIE VALLI…THE FOUR SEASONS
    This music should live on FOREVER

    Thanks to the Jersey Boys Play and the Movie…beautiful tributes to our wonderful Frankie.

    There aren’t enough words to express how much I have enjoyed this man and his music.

    Thank you to everyone involved with Frankie, the play, the movie, and all his concerts for the fabulous entertainment you have provided for all of us for all these years. God Bless You Mr. Valli We love you.

    Comment by A J — June 30, 2014 @ 11:35 pm

  25. I’m going to see Jersey Boys for the third time.
    I think I keep seeing it because I don’t want it to be over.
    I grew up with that music making my chores so much more fun. I think the actor John Llyod Young is fantastic!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I really get lost in the emotion. Thank you everyone…Franki Valli and The Four Seasons, the song writers, the author of the book, the creators of the play and Clint Eastwood for the movie. I love this movie. I’m sure I will buy it when it’s out on DVD.

    Comment by Lee — July 4, 2014 @ 4:52 pm

  26. I was living in San Fran in 1967. My cousin Linda and I were 20 & 21 when we went to the Whiskey a Go-Go one night and the Four Seasons were on stage. Every time I hear Sherreeeee Shereee Baby I think of where I was the first time I really listened to it. They were 4 young handsome talented men. In 2013 I got to see them again in Great Falls Montana on their Jersey Boys tour. Jersey Boys are still handsome and talented! Loved seeing that! Today I saw the movie. I love the honesty in the movie. 68 years of age and still “love my Jersey Boys”! Life has been a roller coaster but God has revealed the reasons why and He is my King! God bless us all and God bless the Jersey
    Boys, Toni, the sons, and Joe Pesci and each of their families.

    Comment by SandraLee Gilbert — July 4, 2014 @ 7:44 pm

  27. Just learned about Mary Delgado’s passing in 2007. I wondered what became of her. Also, didn’t know another of Frankie’s daughters had passed. So sad. RIP Mary and Celia. I have seen the movie twice already and the stage show 20 times! I grew up w/the Four Seasons, loved them then, and will love them forever! Going to see Frankie in concert on Aug. 9; have seen him and the group many times over the years. I love you, Frankie!

    Comment by Patti — July 5, 2014 @ 9:06 am

  28. I saw the movie this weekend and it was fantastic !!!! That final scene when the cast is walking down the street and singing was great. It left me is such a great mood. That is what I love about the Four Seasons’ music. It makes me feel happy even though it is music from before my time which goes to show that good music has no time. Love you Frankie!

    Comment by Rosy — July 7, 2014 @ 1:53 pm

  29. Just saw Jersey Boys the movie I loved it. Also saw the stage show loved that too. Simply to say I love everything about Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. I
    wish it was 1964 and we could start all over again.
    Love you guys and your music.

    Comment by Barbara D'Ascenzo — July 12, 2014 @ 10:25 am

  30. Went to the Matinee by myself this past Thursday & the theatre was packed, even though it’s been over a month’s release! We were ALL on a Journey back in time for those Precious Moments The Jersey Boys madec The Magic of Their Music Come Alive On The Screen Once Again! I was born in ’59 but I’ve had a crush on Frankie Valli ever since I Could Walk Like A Woman! Lol! Seriously, I have a tremendous respect for the way he was portrayed in the movie. I Laughed, I Cried, I tapped my foot, clapped, right along with the rest of the audience! I, too, DID NOT Want It To End! Thank You, Mr. Clint Eastwood for a Superb Motion Picture about four REAL Guys from Jersey who made such a difference in so many livess by the mere sound of their voices & songs! Mr. Valli, You’ve STILL Got Whatever It Is That Makes You Do That Thing You Do That You Do So Well! God Bless You With Great Health, Much Love & All the Joy Your Heart Can Hold! ????????????????????????????????????????

    Comment by Beverly W. Asbell — July 13, 2014 @ 2:11 am

  31. Much Love & Respect to All Members of The Four Seasons, each of who played an integral part of the group. The lyrics, music, vocals & so much more. Such a Sacrifice, Such a Price you paid to share your gifts & talents with the world! Thanks for sharing your Lives, Your Truths, Your Highs & Lows. Life ain’t always pretty…even if you’re Famous! Love You, Jersey Boys! God’s Blessings of Faith, Hope & Love for You & Your Families.

    Comment by Beverly W. Asbell — July 13, 2014 @ 2:55 am

  32. My family and I just saw the Jersey Boys movie today. I showed my daughter the music that I love when I was still in elementary and how I played that tape over and over again. So when I saw the movie it brought back a lot of great memories and remembering all those great music the four seasons brought into our lives. Great movie, loved it.

    Comment by Lei — July 13, 2014 @ 3:23 am

  33. Three years ago,my soul sister took my husband and I to see Jersey Boys in NYC for my 60th birthday. Tuesday my two friends and I saw the movie. Friday night I took my husband of 28 years to see it. Since John is 9 years older than me, he really remembers the music. I remember the later songs of the late 60′s and 70′s. We all have highs and lows in our lives and we have to go through the lows in order to be so very grateful to our Lord for the highs. It never seems to make any sense while you are going though the lows, but somehow we survive. Two weeks ago, I happened upon the interview with Mr. Valli and Michael Kay (2010), which made seeing the movie even more enjoyable. Still, so sorry for all the tradgedy in your life…but you also had many highs!!! Love & Peace to you and your family. PS: until I saw the play, I thought Mr. Valli wrote all his own songs…sorry Mr. Gaudio!!! Fabulous tunes in your head. If we ever get to Nashville, hope to look you up! LOL

    Comment by Kathy Lang — July 26, 2014 @ 6:07 pm

  34. Saw the Jersey Boys tonight with my twin sister. Loved the music and story of their lives. I think that Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons were fabulous. So sad to see what they sacrificed to do what they did so well.

    Comment by Martha S — August 10, 2014 @ 9:09 pm

  35. Can you hear the Music every afternoon I play it to inspire me to get through the late day, this is the most sensational music of all times forget Michael Jackson and others. I’m Seventy years old I play this to my grandchildren and they just love it, I try to swing it with them but the old body cant do what it used to in the sixties, my God Frankie may you and the Four Seasons love on forever with this music.

    Comment by Barry Willis — August 21, 2014 @ 12:12 am

  36. Just watched the Jersey Boys movie for the second time in two days. What a great movie this is…now I really want to the Jersey Boys live and on stage… come back to Boston please…

    Comment by Joanne — November 17, 2014 @ 1:11 am

  37. frankie we need you to come to western australia tour pretty please

    Comment by carole mason — January 11, 2015 @ 2:29 am

  38. Frankie any chance of you and Bob and Tommy getting together for old times and do a show.

    Comment by carole mason — January 11, 2015 @ 2:34 am

  39. Seen the stage show in London last year, got the dvd for Christmas watched it 3 times already.
    Loved the stage show gutted I missed John Lloyd Young in the London production any chance he could be persuaded to come back?.
    Thought the movie was brilliant.

    Comment by Mary Hooker — January 31, 2015 @ 6:57 pm

  40. Dear Mary, Did not know of your passing until now, May God Rest your soul in Happiness Forever. will never forget when you and Frankie came over my house in Newark n.J.for Dinner when the Four Lovers were playing the Vagabond club,Newark N.J. where my Dad was a part-time Bartender, the Group was fabulous, as years passed when Nick left the Group he was replaced by my wife’s second cousin Joey LaBracio, we saw the play 3x plus the movie and still follow the group whenever we can, Frankie, sorry for all the tradgities, Hope the good times overshadows all, God Bless, Thank You for everything

    Comment by Frank P. Capone — February 1, 2015 @ 11:15 am

  41. just read about mary delgado’s passing…so sorry she had to bear the loss of two daughters in one year! saw the stage play in san francisco years ago and then the movie last week…couldn’t stop watching it every time it came on hbo! thank you jersey boys for all the wonderful music that has enchanted generations and continues to do so even now! prayers that mary is resting in peace with her beloved daughters. my mother lost a daughter too to a biking accident so i know how painful it is. rip.

    Comment by judy collins — April 11, 2015 @ 4:56 am

  42. Jersey Boys is about the best movie ever! The cast was perfect. I watch the movie almost every day, & listen to the soundtrack ever day. I have NEVER clapped at the end of a movie, but I sure did for this movie. Should have been an Oscar for best movie. John Lloyd Young has the most amazing voice. Clint Eastwood you are one of the best directors EVER! I watched interviews with John, Vincent, Michael &Eric, and the way they talked about Mr Eastwood was heartwarming!! Thank you all for my new all time favorite movie. I can’t get enough of it..

    Comment by Linda — April 24, 2015 @ 4:30 pm

  43. Dear Frankie, Years ago I saw your stage show, with my brother, Frankie, & a large group of his friends. They, too, are also older “Jersey Boys”! It was so great, as we sang every song with the rest of the audience! I was going thru a very difficult time in my life (as did you) which I didn’t know, until I saw the movie of your life. But the day I saw the stage show was the best day I’ve had in years!! I wish I could meet a man who was as good as you, who believed family was everything. The way you pressed on in bad times, is a true inspiration to me. I’d love to meet you & see you perform in NJ.

    Comment by Desiree — May 14, 2015 @ 3:47 am

  44. We have watched Jersey Boys so many times that we both know all the lines by heart. Our children and grands enjoy the jersey boys. While they are with us we are singing in the car.

    Not many entertainers can enjoy three generations of families that all the family members enjoy the music.

    It’s obvious Frankie Valli has devoted his life to his music.

    Thank you, Frankie Valli for providing so many countless hours of bonding entertainment for my husband and myself.
    You see he suffers from Alzheimer’s and very few things stir his memory, however, your music has. That money cannot buy.

    Comment by Max Harrison - kay — June 4, 2015 @ 9:09 pm

  45. I watched Frankie valli n the 4 seasons concert @ pala starlight theater on june 12, 2015,it was a blast n Frankie valli is sooohh good n I cant get enough of his concert that when I went to las vegas on the weekend I watched the jersey boys musical @ paris hotel n I can say theyre soooh good too!!! I recommend that you all out there watch Frankie valli n its worth every penny…it a must see!!!

    Comment by leticia villarica — June 21, 2015 @ 6:06 am

  46. Saw the NYC stage show loved it will see it again for sure

    Comment by Jan santangelo — January 13, 2016 @ 7:10 pm

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