Antoinette M. ( Iovine) Leone

Mrs. Antoinette M. (Iovine) Leone, age 91, of Utica, and most recently a resident of the Bryant Wing at the Katherine Luther Home, passed away on Friday, August 08, 2008 at the home with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on June 13, 1917, Antoinette was the daughter of the late Gennaro and Genevieve (Sabatelli) Iovine. She was raised and educated locally. On June 3, 1939 she wed Dominick A. Leone; the couple shared a blessed union of 52 years until Dominick’s passing on October 3, 1991. During her working years, Antoinette was employed by the Oneita Knitting Mill, Dunlop Tires, and the Tri State Laundry. Because of her motherly nature, she left the workforce and returned to her home to care for the needs of her family, especially her mother and siblings. A natural caretaker with a hard work ethic, she opened her heart and home to many members of her family in their times of need, which included raising her nieces and nephews and fostering their well-being. She was an endearing mom and reached beyond these limits with her grandchildren. She taught them how to nurture themselves and to pass this life’s knowledge on to their children. She loved her Italian traditions and had her own phrases and ‘vocabulary’ which were humorous and charming to others. Well known for her generosity of spirit, Antoinette welcomed many to her home to enjoy her baking and cooking skills – especially her meatballs on Sunday morning. She also displayed an interest in ceramics, bestowing many gifts of her work to her family. She was a member of the National Association of Letter Carriers Women’s Auxiliary where she at one time held an office to the organization. She was a communicant of St. Mary of Mount Carmel Church/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Antoinette is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Judith A. and Angelo Cianfrocco of Rome, NY, and Donna G. and Paul Tuzzolino of Utica; her son and daughter-in-law, Alphonse “Funzy” and Brenda Leone of Sauquoit; grandchildren and their spouses, Lori Ann and Tim Walls, Judith A. and James Gabes, Archi and Maria Cianfrocco, Keri and Anthony Tartaglia, Michele and Eric Sloma, Catrina Ann Leone, and Domenico Leone; her extended grandchildren, Patrice Harris, and Dianna Malecki; great-grandchildren, Joanna and Jayce Walls, Jayme and Phillip Gabes, Angelo, Tess, Katy , and Anna Rose Cianfrocco; Mia Sloma, and Antonia Tartaglia. Survivors also include many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and her in-law, Mrs. Angeline Leone of Utica. She was predeceased by her 5 brothers and sisters-in-law, John F. Iovine, Salvatore and Millie Iovine, James and Ethel Iovine, Mario and Mary Iovine, and Anthony A. and Mary Iovine; her sisters and brothers-in-law, Cora and Harry Minal, Anna and Carmen Beratta; her in-laws; and her niece, Marilyn Brown. The family is grateful to all the caregivers of the Bryant unit at the Katherine Luther Home who were exceptionally respectful and loving in their care of Antoinette. The family will always remember their kindness. A special thank you is extended to the medical staff of the home. In keeping with the family’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. Please omit floral offerings. Antoinette’s funeral and committal services will be held at the convenience of the family. Services of comfort have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Antoinette M. ( Iovine) Leone

June 13, 1917 - August 8, 2008