Nancy Palese, Nancy’s Stuffed Pizza Namesake, Dies at Age 87 - Eater Chicago

"Rocco Palese opened the original Nancy’s Pizza in 1974, proclaiming it 'Home of the Original Stuffed Pizza,' a boast its 31 franchises continue today. Rocco was inspired by his mother’s recipe for scarciedda, an Italian double-crusted Easter pie stuffed with meat and cheese. Nancy's Pizza became known for its unique stuffed pizza, and although the Paleses faced challenges, including a difficult decade with bombings that made the business uninsurable, Nancy’s Pizza became a recognizable name. In 1977, they expanded with two more locations in Niles and Oak Lawn, and eventually, the franchising business was taken national in the '90s. Today, Nancy’s Pizza is recognized for its original stuffed pizza recipe, which remains unchanged, honoring Nancy and Rocco's legacy." - aimee.levitt