Mrs. Doris Joan (Gianotti) St. Mary

UTICA – Our mom, Doris, passed away on Thursday, June 1, 2023 surrounded by her daughters, Jeanette, Karen, and Kathy; also her niece, Marie Wilusz and her husband Kevin, and Sandra Penree who was a like a daughter to her. Mom was born in Utica on October 8, 1931, attended local public schools, and graduated from T.R. Proctor High School in June of 1951. She was predeceased by her husband, James St. Mary, with whom she shared over 42 years of marriage prior to his passing in 2004; her parents, Joseph and Dorothy (Kahler) Gianotti; her step-mother, Anna DeMarco Gianotti; sister, Peggy Klaus; and brother, Joseph Gianotti. Mom always worked in the healthcare profession, starting in 1952 at Utica State Hospital. During her time there, she joined the CSEA Union. Over the years she went on to work at The Hunter House, Willow Park, Vale Haven, St. Joseph’s Nursing Home, and the Masonic Care Community. She also cared for Ruth Wright who was the Executive Director of the Neighborhood Center and with whom she shared a life-long friendship. We lived our lives on Dudley Ave. for about 39 years until purchasing a 2-family home on Hawthorne Ave. that she found peace in until her very last moment of life. Mom enjoyed bowling for many years at the Royal Bowling Alley and the Pin-O-Rama lanes with Jeanette and Kathy. She also attended many state tournaments over the years with very special friends. She was a member of the Oriskany Post 1448 Ladies Auxiliary. Mom was a warrior, a caretaker, and a loyal friend. She overcame many health issues in a very dignified way. She was a mother figure to many wonderful young people and families. She was a great cook and made many delicious meals. Our mom was sociable and kind, and had a generous soul. Many precious moments were shared during her travels. Wherever her girls went, she was there! She was energized yet gentle, attentive, and dependable. Humor lived in her heart and mind. She was affectionately known as “Bocce Lucelle” which was originated by the two John’s at Pellettieri Joe’s Restaurant! She practiced her faith at Historic Old St. John’s Church. She is survived by her daughters and their loves, Jeanette St. Mary (Bev Heath), Karen St. Mary (Sandra Penree), and Kathleen St. Mary; special friends, Marie Russo, Janet Roach, Joyce Tencza, the Penree family, her daughter from another mother, Penny “Chen” Chencharick, Maria Alberico Brindisi, Mary Devins, Val Yager, and Gina Arcuri; special neighbors, Sheila and Jim Glod, and Adam Kardash; and so many others ~ everyone knew “Momma Rooch!” She also leaves many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; sister-in-law, Nikki St. Mary; and her fur babies, Kody, Little Bee, Kiki, Hobo, and J.J. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Please, in lieu of flowers, consider memorial donations in Doris’ honor to an animal shelter or rescue of your choice. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Doris’ Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Wednesday afternoon, June 7, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at Historic Old St. John’s Church, 240 Bleecker St. Interment will take place in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Clinton at the convenience of the family. Fly high Mommy, we will always love you, forever!

Mrs. Doris Joan (Gianotti) St. Mary

October 8, 1931 - June 1, 2023