Colleen M. Piacentino

Colleen M. Piacentino, age 65, of Utica, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 20, 2017 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center. Together, her children embraced her farewell with much love in their hearts. Born in Utica on March 16, 1952, Colleen was the daughter of the late Paul P. and Olga J. “Alice” (Bulat) Piacentino. Raised and educated in Deerfield, Colleen was a graduate of Whitesboro High School/Class of 1971. At one time, she was married to Darrell Withers, Sr. and they shared the blessing of six children. Darrell passed away on October 1, 2016. Colleen worked as an office assistant at her dad’s business, Paul Piacentino & Son Excavation Company. When she became a mom, she dedicated herself to caring for her family. Blessed with a benevolent heart, she found peace in helping others and was an inspiration to her children. She overcame many adversities in this world and did so with courage. Most people could not have met all the challenges she did and still have the heart and will power to extend herself to those who needed her help. She was grateful to the Lord for giving her the strength of spirit. Colleen had a sarcastic wit that you grew to love, and she had a phrase to fit each moment. She was proud of her Italian heritage and often spoke the lingo in concert with the body language to express her feelings. She did her best to prepare for the holidays, and when she could, she paid it forward and volunteered to help out at the Hope House. She was a window shopper and rarely purchased anything for herself, but she always found a way to find the perfect gift for everyone. Colleen was proud that her children grew to be good people and that at the end of her life, they were all by her side. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart and renewed her passion to persevere. Her faith sustained her life and her rosaries graced her favorite pictures. She prayed for the wellbeing and peace of those she loved. Colleen is survived by her children and their loves, Daryl E. Withers Jr., Sandra “Sandy” Withers, Jason King and Melissa, Maryalice Ervin, Natalie Marie Piacentino, and Christopher Ellis; her grandchildren, Selena; Keaveia, Navear, and Jayden; Zaryona, and Akasha; Jacob, Michaela, and Gage; and Lucas James. She was preceded by her grandson, Draquan. She also leaves her great-granddaughter, Analize; her sister, Jane Paula Piacentino; her brother, Paul Anthony Piacentino; nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles. The Linen family were always there through thick and thin, as well as Paul Henessey, a good friend who she appreciated. She was predeceased by her brother, Perry P. Piacentino. The family extends their gratitude to the staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center/Intensive Care Unit, and the personnel of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., especially Olga, for the dignity and kindness they provided to Colleen. Thanks also to Colleen’s neighbors, Cathy and Delores, who watched over her with compassion and love. Visitation will be held Saturday from 3:00-5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Colleen’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday evening at 5:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Sister Elizabeth Giarrusso, CSJ officiating the ceremony. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Colleen M. Piacentino

March 16, 1952 - November 20, 2017