Jennie Martorana

Jennie “Babe” Martorana, 96, of Rockford died Friday, June 15, 2018. Born August 14, 1921, in Rockford, daughter of Jack and Grace (Revenuto-Angona) Martorana. For those in the food service industry, she was a legend in her own time in fine dining. From the Pink Pony to the Saddle and Cycle, and in the latter years, The Mayflower Restaurant, one of Rockford’s foremost eating establishments in the 80’s and 90’s, where she was hostess and manager of the wait staff. She set the bar high for herself and her staff. She never expected anything that she wasn’t willing to do herself. She was tough but loved and respected by the owners, staff and customers. She retired in the early 90’s to care for her ailing sister. She will be remembered for her uncompromising excellence, generosity and love for family and friends. Survivors include niece, Jackie Keating; great-niece, Kim (Ken) Crowley; great-nephew, John (Casey) Keating. Predeceased by her parents; sister, Ann Donze-Dragna; and great-niece, Kara Keating.

Memorial Mass at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, June 21, in St. Bridget Catholic Church, 600 Clifford Ave., Loves Park. Arrangements by Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd.