Mrs. Florence R. "Florie" (Leone) Rizzo

Mrs. Florence R. “Florie” (Leone) Rizzo, age 75, of Utica, went home to be reunited with those who have gone before her, when she passed away on Wednesday, February 24, 2016 after many years courageously battling cancer. She made her final journey with the love and support of her family by her side. Born in Utica on February 1, 1941, Florence was the daughter of the late Victor C., Sr. and Carmella “Cora” (Canzaro) Leone. She was the perfect combination of her parents’ best virtues. She possessed her mother’s wholesome kindness and her father’s determination. She was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. In 1961, Florie married her best friend and high school sweetheart, Frank Rizzo. For 10 years, they shared their love until Frank’s untimely passing on December 18, 1971. Florie and Frank were made for each other and are now reunited. Over the years, Florie worked as a sales associate at the Boston Store and the Montgomery Ward Department Store. Lastly, she was employed as a telephone operator with the New York Telephone Company. Florie had an open heart, and when in her company, you knew you had her undivided attention and concern, from the gleam in her eyes to the smile on her lips. Born in the image of God, she was selfless, generous, kindhearted, and the epitome of the best a mother could ever be. She extended her love to her grandchildren, attending all their school functions and sporting events. They were graced with a grandma they admired and emulated. Florie was often the glue that held the family together, as well as the many, many friendships from years ago to the most recent moments of her life. She was respectful of family traditions, and the Christmas season was sacred and filled with stories galore. Florie’s favorite holiday ritual was the lost art of baking pitsi en chiusa cookies, a tradition her daughter Kim will carry on. Florie honored her siblings and their families, and held them close to her heart. She found fun in the relationships she held with her aunts, cousins, and friends, alike. Day trips with Carmella and David on Tuesdays were memorable and she also brought along Aunt Dorothy, Mariah, and Morgan. Family vacations were filled with special memories and fun-filled moments. She remained in close contact with both her family and friends through her “Cousins Club” and “Ladies Club” gatherings. She enjoyed games of chance and visits to the casino, especially Turning Stone, and a memorable trip to Las Vegas with her friends. A devout Catholic, Florie was a faithful communicant of her family parish, St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church and a member of the St. Theresa Society. She participated in Novenas and volunteered her time working the venues at the annual feast of Saints Cosmas and Damian. Florie leaves a legacy, not only of her love, but also of her wisdom, much of which she received through her devotion to the Lord. Her family and friends will mourn, yet rejoice, because this wonderful woman graced their lives. Not every person could have handled the trials of life as Florie did. She persevered through the loss of her husband at an early age and she taught her children to appreciate every day. Florie survived an illness that others may have succumbed to because she refused to allow this affliction to dictate her destiny. She fought to the very end with hope, trust, and faith. Her appointed time had come. She will be rewarded for the many good deeds, not only known to us, but to her God. Florence is survived by her son, Frank P. Rizzo of Boonville; her daughter and son-in-law, Kim and David J. Daniels of Marcy; and her grandchildren, Carmella Rizzo; and David Daniels. Florie is now back with her little angel, grandson Zachary Rizzo, who passed away on February 26, 2001 and whose memory was always close to her heart. She will also be remembered by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Joseph “JC” and Marilyn Leone, Patrick V. Leone, and Victor C., Jr. and Lisa Leone; her nieces and nephews, Alicia and Anthony DeSarro, Marlaina and Domenico Morbidini, Dana and Eric Matt, Victor Leone III, Peter Leone and Brianne, Frank and Sierra Rizzuti, and Nina Rizzuti; and her great nieces, and great nephews. She also leaves her cherished aunts, uncles, and cousins who she loved dearly. She shared a very close relationship with Aunt Rosie, Aunt Shirley and Uncle Frank, Uncle Russ and Aunt Laura, Aunt Mary, Uncle Tony, cousins Liz and Joe; and her sister-in-law, Dorothy. Florie was blessed with the love and support of her wonderful friends, Barb, Carm, Diana, Lena, Marie, Mariellen, Theresa, Bee, Lorraine and Paul. She was predeceased by her maternal grandparents, Victoria and Patsy Canzaro; paternal grandparents, Pasquale and Fortunata Leone; in-laws, Peter and Frances Rizzo; special cousin, Mickey Madia; and great-aunt, Dolly Vilardi. The family is grateful to Dr. Robert Kellman, Dr. Ajeet Gajra, and Dr. Seung Shin Hahn and their staffs, all whom possessed outstanding compassion and were of great inspiration to Florie and her family; and the nurses and staff of 6I at the Upstate Cancer Center who were supportive and attended to her with great care. Visitation will be held Sunday from 2:00-5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The family will remain until all visitors have been seen. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Florie's name to the Upstate Cancer Center @ Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Florence’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday morning at 11:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Mark Kaminski. Committal services and Interment will follow graveside at Calvary Cemetery.

Mrs. Florence R. "Florie" (Leone) Rizzo

February 1, 1941 - February 24, 2016