Mrs. Gayle Elaine (Frey) Taurisano

NEW HARTFORD – Mrs. Gayle Elaine (Frey) Taurisano, age 85, passed away on Thursday, March 20, 2025, in the comfort and dignity of her home. At the time of her passing, her loving family was by her side. Born in Utica on October 9, 1939, Gayle was the daughter of the late William M. and Arlene T. (Richards) Frey. A graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1957, she later received her nursing license from St. Elizabeth School of Nursing. Gayle was wed to Michael P. Taurisano on February 10, 1959. Their relationship began as high school sweethearts at the age of 14 and spanned 71 years, including 66 years of marriage. She began her career in private duty nursing care, while raising five children. She then built her own business from the ground up at a time when female entrepreneurs were very rare. Beginning as a nursing registry that developed into a New York State Licensed Homecare Agency, Oxford Home Care Services has been the premier home healthcare agency in Oneida County for over 40 years. Upon her retirement at age 75, her eldest daughters, Laine and Tami, took over and maintained the standard that Gayle set. Gayle was a true visionary, passing her work ethic and creativity on to her children and grandchildren, who are all extremely proud of her entrepreneurial legacy. Gayle’s life revolved around the love and needs of her family, and her generosity was second to none. She was dignified, private, and reserved, and always displayed impeccable taste, style, and subtle wit. She was fondly known as “Mema” by her grandchildren and their friends. Being of the Catholic faith, she was devoted to the Blessed Mother, praying the rosary twice each day. Christmas was especially important to her and her Christmas Eve celebrations have left a profound impact on the entire family. Gayle is survived by her husband, Michael; children and their spouses, Laine and Sam Berardino, Tami and Michael Pfisterer, Michael V. Taurisano, Kristin Boutin and Köll Cherizard, and Dayle and Thomas Turczyn; grandchildren, Lindsay Berardino and Paul Kawam, Liane and Steven Zalewski; Alix and Chris Hulihan, Maximillian Pfisterer, Augustus Pfisterer; Zachary Boutin, Lucas and Mariah Boutin, Gavan Boutin; and Sydney and Sean Miklas; and seven great-grandchildren, Rohm Zalewski, Ellie Zalewski, Shea Zalewski; Sophie Hulihan; Magnolia Boutin, Violet Boutin; and Maeve Miklas. She will also be missed by her sister-in-law, Rose Frey (the late Michael Frey); former son-in-law, Michael Boutin; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; in-laws, Terry and Barbara Taurisano, and Phil and Kitty Taurisano; and lifelong friends, Gloria and Al Barbato, and JoAnn McKelvey (the late James McKelvey). She was predeceased by her beloved brother, Michael Frey; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Alfred and Philomena (Daniels) Taurisano; brother-in-law, Alfred “AL T” Taurisano; and sister-in-law, Denise Taurisano. Gayle was cared for in her home by her devoted husband and daughters. Additionally, the family would like to extend their gratitude to Gayle’s longtime physician, Dr. Bhisham Garg for his care and compassion; her home health aides, Estela, Jill, and Georgia; and Hospice & Palliative Care. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Gayle’s Memorial Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., at St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church, 422 Tilden Ave. There will be an opportunity to pay respects to the family at the conclusion of Mass. Those who are unable to attend may be present virtually at https://www.youtube.com/@eannacefuneralhome804/streams. Inurnment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery at a later date. Please omit floral offerings.

Mrs. Gayle Elaine (Frey) Taurisano

October 9, 1939 - March 20, 2025