Mrs. Frances C. (Cimino) Citriniti

Mrs. Frances C. (Cimino) Citriniti, age 90, passed away on Friday, December 14, 2012 in the comfort of her home with the love and support of her family. Born in Utica on October 1, 1922, Frances was the daughter of the late Ralph and Congetta (Sacco) Cimino. She was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1940. On July 5, 1947 she married Fred J. Citriniti with whom she shared 46 years prior to his passing on April 11, 1994. An inseparable couple, Fran and Fred were the best of friends and lived their lives in the light of each other’s happiness. Fran was an exceptional caregiver and possessed true maternal instincts. She had aspired to become a teacher in an age when women couldn’t always fulfill their dreams. She saw a glimpse of her future endeavors when she volunteered at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Grammar School. With the encouragement of a local educator, she became a certified Teacher’s Assistant at Roscoe Conkling School in 1972. It was through this opportunity that she wholeheartedly aided children in the classroom with compassion and heart, virtues that are remembered by those students to this day. She was proud to have worked for the Utica City School District until 1992. Fran was a humble, modest, Christian woman who trusted God with her every need. The desires of her heart were shared in her roles as a devoted daughter and sister, an honest and loving spouse, and a selfless mother who was conscious of the treasures of her only daughter; she considered this one of life’s greatest blessings. To have had this loving family brought her the most joy. She was a fine example of one who taught unconditional love and gave great purpose and meaning to relationships, especially the closeness with her daughter, Connie, who so willingly cared for and honored her mom. Much of Frances’ happiness in these later years came from knowing that her daughter was happy, along with a son-in-law who added sunshine to her life and cared for Frances as his own mother. You couldn’t help but admire her wonderful capacity to appreciate again and again, freshly and genuinely, her love for life. She was so proud of the fact that 3 generations of family resided together which created the blessings of bonds of love among them. Fran and her late husband Fred socialized with many dear friends, especially remembering Nina Danella and her late husband Lou, as well as John and Grace Marra who have also passed. Some of her most joyous times came from her “friendship” with her daughter Connie, and her friends. The door was always open to gather after school events and many longtime friendships came from this period in her life. A woman of grace and style, Fran was definitely a clothes shopper, a pastime and ritual she especially enjoyed sharing with her cousin Frances. During the times she was limited to her home, she utilized the Home Shopping Network. As a faithful communicant of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Church, her parish life was an inspiration to her and she was honored to be a member of the St. Anne’s Society. She also attended Bible study classes led by the late Flora Elacqua. She volunteered at the annual festivals and enjoyed the friendships with the women of the Busy Bodies Club. Frances is survived by her daughter Connie Citriniti-Giacovelli and her husband Angelo C., with whom she shared a home; and her brother, Ralph Cimino, Jr. of Utica. She also knew the love of her son-in-law’s children, Corey and Megan. Also left to mourn her passing are many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews. Fran shared a great closeness with her cousins, but held a special place in her heart and a sisterhood with her cousin Frances DeCuffa. Additionally, she leaves her sister-in-law Rose S. Femia. Fran spent precious time with her best friend, Margaret Calabrese, as traveling and dining companions. Fran’s spirit was always lifted when she was visited by her youngest “girlfriend”, Mikayla. She will also be remembered by Angelo J. Giacovelli, her son-in-law’s father. She was predeceased by members of her husband’s family. The uplifting and helpful companionship of Genevieve Ranieri will remain in the hearts of Fran’s family, as well as the care offered by Emily, Louise, the staff of the Visiting Nurse Association, and Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., especially Cheryl. Each day was made brighter by the constant calls from her cousin Frances and her brother Ralph. A special note of appreciation is extended to Fr. James Cesta for his Communion call and visit. Visitation will be held on Monday from 5-7 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association, The Hall House, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Frances selected her only daughter’s middle name, Jude, in honor of this saint to whom she prayed and was grateful for a healthy child. Frances’ funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday morning at 9:00 from the funeral home and at 10:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mrs. Frances C. (Cimino) Citriniti

October 1, 1922 - December 14, 2012