VILLANOVA, Pa. – Mary Jane Massimino, who was at Rollie Massimino's side throughout an iconic coaching career that included a 19-year stint at Villanova (1973-92), died peacefully Wednesday with her five children at her side in Florida.
 
"Mrs. Mass" as she was known within the Nova Nation, was 84.
 
"The soul of the Villanova Basketball during the Coach Mass era passed this morning peacefully," stated Wildcats coach Jay Wright, who served seven seasons as a Massimino assistant at Villanova (1987-92) and UNLV (1992-94) before embarking upon his head coaching career.
 
"Every player and coach of that time was blessed to have the calming assurance and love of Mrs. Mass."
 
The Massiminos came to Villanova in 1973. Rollie Massimino served 19 memorable seasons, a legendary run that included 357 victories, 20 NCAA Tournament triumphs and the unforgettable NCAA national championship in 1985. Coach Massimino died in August 2017 at the age of 82.
 
Mary Jane and Rollie Massimino were married for 59 years and had five children who survive them. Son Tom served as a Nova assistant coach on his father's staff while R.C. Massimino is a former Wildcats guard who was a part of the 1985 NCAA title team. Son Andrew and daughters Lee Ann and Michele also survive their parents. The Massimino family includes 17 grandchildren.
 
When the players learned of Mrs. Massimino's passing, the overriding stories were about how she was a second mother to them and welcomed them as her own, not only when they were at Villanova but right up until her passing. There was never a time they couldn't come over for a delicious dish of pasta and a great big hug.They will all miss her. 
 
A funeral service will be held Tuesday, July 28. Due to restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mass will be limited to family members. For those who want to tune in, below is a live stream link to the Mass of Christian burial at 11am. 

https://vums-web.villanova.edu/Mediasite/Play/e74b0e2bff834a29a7bebcc3e8de993d1d