Lena (Basilio) Petrillo

Mrs. Pasqualina “Lena” (Basilio) Petrillo, age 90, of North Utica, passed away on Wednesday, November 10, 2010 with the love and support of her family by her side. Born in Aquino, Province of Frosinone, Italy on August 5, 1920, Lena was the daughter of the late Rocco and Carolina (Petrilli) Basilio. As a child she immigrated to the United States and settled in Utica where she was raised and educated. On October 9, 1943 she married Joseph R. Petrillo with whom she shared a 60-year union prior to his passing on April 12, 2004; their relationship was traditional and loving in nature, and enhanced by family and loved ones. Lena enjoyed her family more than anything else. They filled her life, and she put her heart and soul into caring for them. She was an impeccable housekeeper and a fabulous cook, able to please anyone’s palate and entertained with poise and pride. Lena was blessed with a boundless work ethic, and when she baked, it was with much love and generosity, always creating a special dish for family and friends. She put her own personal touch on recipes which always turned out well. A warm and loving caretaker with an unselfish nature, she walked in the way of the Lord and adored the Blessed Mother. As a mother, she managed the maintenance of her household with great strength and determination, values that her children admired. Christmas season was very special to Lena, and her traditional dishes were prepared with the hope of pleasing others in her heart. The Lord also granted Lena a green thumb which she used in her gardening of plants and perennials, and her rose bushes that adorned her front walk in a home that was filled with love. She was a member of the Democratic Women’s Club and the Madonna Della Libera Society. She was a parishioner of St. Peter’s Church. Lena is survived by her children, Eileen D’Agostino of Utica, Linda F. Petrillo of Canaan, NY, and Richard A. Petrillo of Utica. Lena also knew the love and respect of her former son-in-law, Thomas D’Agostino, and former daughter-in-law, Connie Bord, who visited often and presented Lena with bouquets of roses. She also leaves her grandchildren, David D’Agostino, Mark D’Agostino, and Justin Petrillo. Survivors also include her nieces and nephews, especially remembering the kindness of Pam, Rose, and Dolores; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Sandy and Tony Cecilia and Carmella Petrillo. She was also blessed with wonderful neighbors, Anita Lantry and the late Bill Lantry, Gloria Ross, Marge Rielly, and David and Donna Turturo. Their concern, dedication, and friendship to Lena meant so much to her. She was predeceased by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Palmira Basilio, Coltilda and Joseph Iannone, Antoinette and Joseph Mancuso, Dorothea and Thomas Fuoco, and Mary and Charles Favale; and her in-laws, Roger Petrillo, and Anna and Louis Degni. The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Oleg Dulkin and nurse Fiki for their professional care and personal attention laced with sincere kindness; and The Pines at Utica staff who were outgoing and generous with their time and care of Lena during her rehabilitation. Visitation will be held Friday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Lena’s funeral service will commence on Saturday afternoon at 12:00 from the funeral home and at 1:00 at St. Peter’s Church where her Mass of Christian Burial and her Celebration of Life will be offered by Rev. David Orzel. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Lena (Basilio) Petrillo

August 5, 1920 - November 10, 2010