Mrs. Dora (Annoscia) DeFazio

UTICA - Mrs. Dora (Annoscia) DeFazio, age 96, went home to the Lord on Thursday, December 8, 2022, on the holy day of The Immaculate Conception of The Blessed Virgin Mary. Born as Theodara, on April 10, 1926 in Bari, Italy, Dora was the daughter of the late Giorgio and Annuntiata (Lambo) Annoscia. On November 12, 1945 in Italy, she wed Samuel S. DeFazio, and in early 1946, during World War II, with blessings from her father, she immigrated to the United States. Later, the couple settled in New York City where they resided for a period of time while Dora worked at the iconic Barricini Candy Company. As she began her family, they came to Utica, as her parents encouraged her to pave the way for her family to have a “better life” in the new world, America. Dora was blessed with three wonderful sons whom she adored and built her world around. She shared over 35 years with her husband Sam, prior to his passing on May 20, 1981. For several years, Dora was employed by the General Electric Company at the Kent Street location, as an Assembler. Subsequent to that endeavor, she entrusted her heart to her children and home. From the moment Dora’s day began, it was always on a positive note! In her surroundings, she always played music as she prepared for a daily walk to benefit her health and well being ~ before it was a popular pastime. Dora, along with many friends, carried out their morning routine at Proctor Park. Dora was beautiful and took pride in her presentation. She was noted for her appearance when she walked into a room. Her encouraging and delightful demeanor made things happen! She was a matriarch who held her family together. Dinner at 5:00 p.m. was mandatory, and the boys all complied. She was a protective mom to a great degree, and because she was opinionated, you knew where you stood. She had an individual bond with each of her boys and was one of the most influential bonds in their lives. She was honest, kind, and generous of spirit. She was also a fabulous cook, preparing meals from scratch with no need for a written recipe. Her home and hospitality was open to all for lunch at 12:00 noon, but “Closed Kitchen on Friday” was a sign on her kitchen wall, …that was always ignored. Dora will be remembered for her determination and her heartfelt desire for harmony within her family. She set the rules, and everyone lived in kinship and kindness, including her daughters-in-law and the generations that followed who felt gratitude and pride in one another. Dora danced “like no one was watching.” Her intentions were always to have a joyful and gracious time. As many would remember, when the holidays came, it almost seemed impossible to think she could gather so many at an extension of one table! She prepared all the decorations, hosted all the festivities, and served a fabulous feast. Doing the right thing was always foremost in Dora’s mind and heart. From being a mother, mother-in-law, nonnie, and great-grandmother, she thoroughly enjoyed the many wonderful times she spent joyfully with them. She was also much loved for welcoming anyone at anytime to be part of her life. Dora was a spiritual woman who took interest in studying the bible and learning about the Lord. Mass was important to her and you could see the goodness in her actions came from her faith in Him. Dora is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Frank and Vinicia M. DeFazio, Michael and Teresa DeFazio, and James DeFazio; her grandchildren, Maresa and Christopher Kutas; Talia and Ryan Gallagher, Cristiana and Carl Tardugno; James DeFazio, and Giovanna DeFazio; and her great-grandchildren, Francesca, and Anthony Kutas; and Mia, and Jack Gallagher. She was predeceased by her siblings and their spouses, Domenica Ranieri, Michele Annoscia, Natalie McCormack, Alfonso Annoscia, and Olympia Verna. She also leaves her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. In this life, she shared a bond with many people, and formed many faithful friendships. The family is grateful to Dora’s physicians, Dr. Oleg Dulkin (“Dr. O.”) and Dr. Kevin McCormick for their compassionate care; and the staff of the Masonic Care Community/Troy Household who tended to Dora with great love and sensitivity, especially Tekia, Samantha, Angela, Shirley, Betsy, Tina, Herminia, and Wendy. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Dora’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday, December 12, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at Mary Mother of Our Savior Parish, Lourdes Campus, 2222 Genesee St. where her Mass of Christian burial will be offered. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of Mass. By family request, please omit floral arrangements. Entombment will take place in Christ Our Savior Mausoleum at Calvary Cemetery.

Mrs. Dora (Annoscia) DeFazio

April 10, 1926 - December 8, 2022