Sister Daniella Spina

Sister Daniella (Born Francine) Spina, age 67, went home to God when she passed away on Wednesday, January 30, 2013 at St. Joseph's Hospital in Syracuse. Born in Utica on October 10, 1945, Francine was the daughter of the late Rosario and Christine (Torchia) Spina. She graduated with honors from T.R. Proctor High School and attended Maria Regina College. She went on to receive her Bachelors degree from Catholic University in Washington, D.C., and her Masters degree from SUNY Oswego. Francine entered the convent on October 11, 1963 and took her vows in 1964. As a Sister of St. Francis, Sister Daniella humbly and spiritually committed herself to her Catholic community for 49 years, celebrating her Silver Jubilee in 1989. Sister taught in many schools in the Syracuse, Utica, and Oswego areas, and in Long Beach, CA. She was a Clerical Receptionist at St. Elizabeth Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital, and Director of Volunteers at Francis House. Lastly, she was a teacher and librarian at Bishop Ludden High School. She will be remembered for her many years of dedicated service to her community and in the hearts of those who knew and loved her as a devoted teacher who had a great rapport with students. Sister loved music, dancing, telling stories, and applying her artistic creativity. She truly believed in her gracious God who provided her with a generous heart and an outgoing spirit. Her life was filled with many moments, accomplishments, and fulfillment of hopes. She was truly an inspiration to all. Sister Daniella is survived by her sister, Loretta Moccaldi, who she looked upon as a loving second mother and mentor, as well as her brother-in-law Anthony Moccaldi of Utica. She was preceded in death by her brother, Stephen. She also leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins, and her friends at the religious community of the Sisters of St. Francis. Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend Sister Daniella’s funeral service and Memorial Mass of Christian Burial which will be offered by Rev. Joseph Salerno on Saturday afternoon at 1:00 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. The family will receive visitors at the Church from 12:00-1:00 p.m. prior to her Celebration of Life. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in lieu of flowers may make a donation to the Stevens-Swan Humane Society or the Multiple Sclerosis Society; envelopes will be available at the service. Arrangements are under the care and the direction of Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Sister Daniella Spina

October 10, 1947 - January 30, 2013