Elizabeth "Betty" (Morosco) Grasso

Mrs. Elizabeth M. “Betty” (Morosco) Grasso, age 101, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, October 23, 2011 in the comfort and privacy of her home with her loving family by her side. Elizabeth was born in Utica on April 1, 1910, the daughter of the late Thomas J., Sr. and Rosina “Rose” (Vigna) Morosco. She was raised and educated locally. On October 29, 1946 she married Vito J. Grasso with whom she shared 57 years in a union devoted to honoring their vows of love and commitment to each other. Betty had a deep and enduring love for Vito and from their marriage came the blessing of their three children. They were supportive and loving parents of one mind in their family life. Her beloved Vito passed away on May 3, 2004. Prior to her marriage, Betty worked for local knitting mills, and the Kenwell Corporation. A snapshot of her life would include much time spent with multiple generations of endeared family and loving friends. Betty grew up during the Depression, and she had her share of tears, but she always saw God’s blessing even through her doubts and fears. What made her glow and keep her heart alive was the love that abided inside. Her outgoing personality, gift of humor, strong constitution, respect for others, and her faith in God were all qualities that enhanced her life and longevity and inspired hope and happiness in others. They were also contributing factors for her 101 beautiful years of life. Betty genuinely saw the good in others and was never shy in counting her blessings. Thanksgiving Day was her favorite holiday because it was fraught with family and her favorite foods. She also loved to dance which filled her life with lightness and joy. She enjoyed bingo at the East Side Senior Center and a friendly game of Pokino with her girlfriends. A community-minded woman, she was sensitive to fundraising concerns and activities within Albany Street School when her children were young. She was a lifetime member of St. Agnes Church. Betty is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Anthony “Tony” and Ann Grasso of E. Greenbush, NY, and Vito F. and Susan Grasso of Brunswick, NY; her daughter, RoseAnn E. Grasso with whom she shared a home; her grandchildren, Jonathan M. and Heather Grasso, Matthew J. Grasso and Suzanne White; Caroline M. Grasso and fiancé Justin Myers, and Rebecca S. Grasso; and her great-granddaughter, Melina Elizabeth Grasso. In addition, she leaves her sisters, Lillian Mary Morosco, and Rose DeKime, both of Utica; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, especially Rose Macrino, and sister-in-law, Jennie Morosco. Betty was blessed with many wonderful friendships during her life, some who have gone before her and those who remained close to her until this day. She was predeceased by her brothers and sister-in-law, Thomas J. Morosco, Jr., Bernard “Ben” and Angela Morosco, Joseph T. Morosco, Sr., and Frank A. Morosco; her sisters and brothers-in-law, Florence and James Talerico, Mary and Earl McCollum, and Jane Morosco; and her in-laws, John P. Grasso, Vincent “James” DeKime, and Madeline and Anthony Mazzatti. The family extends heartfelt thanks to neighbors Lily Daniels, Maria Falcon, Elizabeth Escalante, and good friend, Ann Popeo, who cared for and volunteered their professional assistance in providing for Betty’s medical and physical needs. Deepest gratitude is given to Msgr. Francis Willenburg and Father John Comesky who gave Mom wonderful spiritual guidance and support for many years. The many visits, gifts, phone calls, cards, etc. from relatives and friends, too numerous to mention (you know and we know who you are!) were appreciated more than you could ever realize. Also, the personal visits, phone calls, and cards from Mom’s longtime physicians, Dr. Robert Chruscicki, Dr. Toufik Farkouh, and Dr. Randolph Snow went way beyond the call of duty. Thanks also to Dr. Sushma Kaul, Dr. Mark Schug, and the many residents of the St. Elizabeth Home Visit program for the genuine concern and affection they always showed toward Mom; and a special acknowledgment to professional caregivers, Lola, Maribelle, Karen, Gloriann, and the Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. staff who made Betty’s last days as comfortable and peaceful as they possibly could. The family will honor and commemorate Betty’s life at a private time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Betty’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Wednesday afternoon at 1:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Msgr. Francis Willenburg. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the Mass. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Elizabeth "Betty" (Morosco) Grasso

April 1, 1910 - October 23, 2011