Mrs. Congetta M. "Connie" (Bernardi) Gumbs

Mrs. Congetta M. (Bernardi) Gumbs, age 98, affectionately known to her family as “Aunt Tim”, passed away on Sunday, November 3, 2013 with the love and support of her family. Born in Utica on October 3, 1915, Congetta was the daughter of the late Pasquale and Maria Antoinette (Moletta) Bernardi. She was raised and educated locally. On March 24, 1941, in New York City, Connie married Cyril Gumbs; as members of the Greatest Generation, the couple shared their strength and love for 49 years. Her husband passed away on July 15, 1990. A hardworking woman, Connie was employed by the Oneita and Augusta Knitting Mills, and subsequently worked at the Broadacres Nursing Home, retiring in September of 1979 after 18 years of service as a Dietary Aide. Connie was a good provider and a wonderful friend. She was a very capable cook, and she kept a tidy home. A hospitable hostess, her table was bountiful and ready for guests. Family members were always “down the house” because it was a mainstay and gathering spot, a true treasure chest of many memories. Holidays were filled with traditions and focused around family. Throughout the years, she earned the honorable title of ‘matriarch of the family’, and she felt blessed to be able to offer warmth and welcome to all who shared her home. Her inner spirit motivated her generous soul and she tended to the special care of her son, Ronnie with utmost devotion. A woman of faith, Connie was a parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where she participated in many activities throughout the year including minstrel shows, the Daughters of St. Mary, and the remembrance of all the Saints Days. Connie is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Ronald Gumbs, and Patrick and Rosemary Gumbs; her daughters and son-in-law, Annette “Cookie” Eddy, and Cindy and Joseph Gentile. A gentle remembrance is shared for her son-in-law, Louis “Louie” Eddy, who preceded her. She also leaves her grandchildren, Gwenn and Todd Claytor, Brian Jerome and fiancée, Carla; Michele and Walt Diachuk, Shawn and Jennifer Eddy; Joseph Gentile, and Nicholas Gentile. She also held close to her heart the memory of her granddaughter, Sharon Ann Eddy, who passed away in September of 1977. In addition, she leaves her great-grandchildren, Meredith, Holly, and Grant; Juliette, Virginia, and Lia; Brianna, and Nicholas; Christopher, Anthony, and Ianna; many nieces and nephews, with special mention of Marie Cucci; great-nieces, especially Marlene Duniec, great-nephews, cousins, and sister-in-law Hycynthia Nagy. Connie was favored with wonderful friends, some of whom have gone before her. Left to remember the good times are her wonderful and helpful neighbor, Matt Niznik, who was a thoughtful and generous man, and her dear friend, Josephine Terzo. She was predeceased by her siblings and their spouses, Mary and Daniel Caffero, Dominick and Mamie Bernardi, Joseph Bernardi, Rose and Charles Guerra. The family is grateful to Connie’s physician and his kind staff who were so helpful; and Deacon Bill Dischiavo for his spiritual visits. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Connie’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Wednesday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. John Buehler and con-celebrant Deacon Bill. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mrs. Congetta M. "Connie" (Bernardi) Gumbs

October 3, 1915 - November 3, 2013