Obituary of Vivian Pappalardo

Vivian Papplardo - (McClenin) died August 3, 2015- Retired NYPD Sargent. Daughter of the late Cecelia and Thomas McClenin. Loving mother to Gina Pappalardo and the late Joseph Pappalardo. Mother in Law to John (Jack) DeFillippo. Loving sister to Roberta McClenin, the late Richard McClenin, Catherine Foley, Thomas McClenin, & Jerry McClenin. Sister in law to Joanne (Pompa) McClenin, Sharon (Kelley) McClenin, Jonel (Laurino) McClenin, John Pappalardo, and Jeanneane Pappalardo. Please see SERVICE INFORMATION tab. Born April 17, 1947 around Easter Sunday, her mother named her Vivian meaning "full of life" to reflect the renewal of life the spring season brings. Vivian's life reflected this fullness. Vivian was one of 6 children. She was a middle child, born at the beginning of the post WWII baby boom. When reflecting on her life and accomplishments she was the epitome of the Baby Boom generation. Vivian was a lively kid with a "can do" attitude. No grass grew under her feet. She had goals in life and worked very hard to attain them. "Doing it her way!" She was bright, artistic and a great dancer. She watched American Bandstand on TV every afternoon learning all the new steps and dances. Despite being an excellent student she became bored with school in her mid-teens and decided to opt out. This was the early 60's and a rebellious time. After quitting high school she worked at several jobs and also met "the love of her life," Joe Pappalardo. He was a handsome debonair guy and she married him at 17. By age 18 she gave birth to a beautiful son, Joey. She cared for him and worked at the same time to save for a house. This sounds like the beginning of the two income scenario common today, but rare in the early 60's. At 21 years old with a new baby girl, Gina added to the family, Vivian bought a home that would become the epicenter of a multitude of McClenin-Pappalardo family gatherings. Vivian loved her home and did many home improvements herself while lovingly caring for her family. She was working toward the American Dream. The idea of feminism was in its infancy but Vivian was a born feminist not defined by what society dictated a woman should aspire to. In the early 1970's the NYPD created an initiative to hire women to function in the full capacity of police officers. Prior to these initiative women police officers served as matrons for prisoners or in clerical duties. Vivian was in the first graduating class aspiring to this initiative. It was not easy as the "old boys" in NYPD did not exactly welcome women with open arms. Her first assignment was a night shift beat patrolling the streets of 1970's Greenpoint-Williamsburg by herself. This was a crime infested area those days. She did it! Through the years she maneuvered her way using hard work and gumption to become an outstanding member of the NYPD. She pushed to become a member of elite units such as the Organized Crime Task Force and the Anti-Crime Unit. She ultimately found herself in the prestigious position of Sergeant of Detectives of a homicide squad in Brooklyn. At the same time as she carved out a substantial career in the NYPD; the former high school dropout earned her GED, Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and Master’s Degree in Public Administration along the way. Vivian loved to travel and visited China and Russia before the downfall of Communism. She reflected on her trips and her gratitude for living in the USA with its freedom and high standard of living. She also traveled to Europe and many US States, including many of the National Parks. She had a condo in Clearwater, Florida which she used as a getaway enjoying fishing at Clearwater Beach. Vivian was the consummate entertainer. Her immediate family consisted of over 30 and all were welcomed for most holidays. Christmas Eve was her favorite. Her house was elegantly decorated; tons of food and drink with a visit from Santa was provided. A wonderful time was had by all. Many memorable times were spent on East 53rd St. Vivian was especially close to her mother, Cecilia. Mom came to live with Vivian for a quite a few years, giving support to each other. Cecelia was a loving presence to her grandchildren while Vivian was at work. Vivian had tragedy in her life. Her beloved son, Joey died at 18 years old. Vivian somehow survived and continued to be a source of strength for her family. Unfortunately, Vivian and Joe Pappalardo amicably divorced in the late 1970's. After retiring from the NYPD, Vivian's spirit of entrepreneurship emerged and she started a private investigative service, utilizing the knowledge and experience accumulated during her 20 plus years as a criminal investigator. Vivian continued that business successfully until deciding to retire fully to her condo in Florida. Vivian lived in Florida enjoying the warm weather on Clearwater Beach until her death. Vivian was loved and respected. She was a feminist who loved dresses and hats. She was a cop with a heart. She was a brave woman who attained most of her goals in life. She will forever be in the hearts and memories of her family and friends. REST IN PEACE, VIVIAN. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Vivian's name to the Police Athletic League. Please follow the link provided or call the Police Athletic League contact Renee Jamerson at (212) 477-9450 x. 353. https://palnyc2008.thankyou4caring.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=298