Betty Jane Rossi

UTICA - Betty Jane Rossi, age 86, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, with her loving son by her side. Betty was born in Utica on November 26, 1936, to the late Salvatore and Concetta (Pettinato) Rossi. Raised and educated in Utica, Betty pursued her passion in the beauty industry. A beautician by trade, she owned and operated four different businesses locally. Betty was a loving and devoted mother. She was seen as a trailblazer, always interested in being the first to embark on a new venture. Her dedication to her family and their needs was unwavering. An avid traveler, Betty did it her way and was described by many as a firecracker. Her steadfast determination meant she did not allow any obstacles to deter her from accomplishing her goals. Among her favorite pastimes, Betty loved the excitement of bingo and a good card game. She also enjoyed gathering with the group of women at the Steinhorst for various social activities. A woman of faith, she was a member of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Betty is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Christopher and Sheli Norelli. She held close to her heart the memory of her son, Frank S. Norelli, who preceded her on November 11, 2015. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Regina Norelli; Nicole Norelli, and Katherine Norelli; great-grandson, Justin Nash; and her sisters and brother-in-law, Gloria Simonette, Carol “Cookie” Abruzzo (the late Timothy Abruzzo), and Lucille “Lulu” and Ronald Wereszynski. Betty was preceded in death by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Rose and Tony Mastracco, Mary and Peter Capparulo, Isabelle “Izzy” Rossi, Josephine “Joanne” and Raymond Sabino, Virginia “Jeannie” and Kenneth Berthiaume, and Angeline “Angie” and Louis Ficchi. She leaves many nieces and nephews, especially acknowledging Jude Abruzzo Clark and her husband Michael, Judi and Scott Bushway, Vincent and Eileen Mastracco, Dina Abruzzo, and Tonia Hill; and great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. She was also predeceased by her nephews, Anthony “Nino” Abruzzo, Michael Catrombone, Anthony Mastracco, Joseph DePaul, Joseph Ficchi, and John Capparulo. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the staff of The Grand at Utica for their care and compassion. Thanks also to Debbie Williams, who lovingly stayed in touch, keeping Betty's spirits uplifted. The family will honor her life at a Graveside Service to be held on Thursday, November 9, 2023 at 12:30 p.m. at Calvary Cemetery, 2407 Oneida St.

Betty Jane Rossi

November 26, 1936 - October 25, 2023