Beverly (Speziale) Edwards

Mrs. Beverly (Speziale) Edwards, age 61, of North Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, February 14, 2008 in the comfort of her home. Born in Dunkirk, NY on August 9, 1946, Beverly was the daughter of the late Michael and Kathryn McQuade-Speziale. She also knew the love and guidance of her second father, John “Buck” Leimer. She was raised and educated in Dunkirk, and was a graduate of Potsdam High School. At one time she was married to Dale G. Quesnell. In the early 1980’s she had been married to Gordon Edwards who passed away on September 11, 2002. Bev was employed by the General Electric Company at the Broad St. location, and at one time held the position of polisher at the A.A.R. Co. Because of her people skills, she most enjoyed the years she worked at Bengee’s on Columbia St. A nurturing woman, she always surrounded her loved ones with her heart and soul. She had a knack of letting others know her true feelings and many people appreciated her honesty and humorous delivery. Bev had lots of friends and admirers. Her typical day was not complete until she played her scratch-off tickets, cigarette hanging from her mouth, with her glass of red wine in hand. She was an excellent shuffleboard and card player, was the cross word puzzle queen, and always cheered for the Boston Red Sox and the Buffalo Bills. She mastered the art of preparing Italian foods with such abundance, a talent she passed on to her granddaughter. Among her many culinary delights, her family will especially remember her blue cheese dressing. With goodness in her heart, Bev’s personal spirituality was lived each day. Beverly is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Brian Vescelus of Savannah, GA; and her son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Kristal Speziale of Bridgewater. She was a wonderful grandma who dearly loved her grandchildren, Kayla Speziale, Jonathan Speziale, Deavin Vescelus, and Lauren Vescelus. Survivors also include her sister and brother-in-law, Michaelyn and Brian Donaldson of Utica; her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws. Much of Beverly's life revolved around her feline companion "Grayson." She also leaves her friends of the Maggiore family from Bengee’s. She also shared a close relationship with Thora Schaffer and her family, her niece Liz, and her extended family and friends at Bengee’s. She was predeceased by her dear friends, Hazel and Benny Maggiore. The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center, and the Intensive Care Unit, especially Bob, R.N., who offered support and professional assistance with much compassion. Gratitude is also extended to the Utica Rescue Team for their valiant efforts. Visitation will be held Monday from 5:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Beverly’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday evening at 7:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Rev. John Flanagan officiating.

Beverly (Speziale) Edwards

August 9, 1946 - February 14, 2008