Mrs. Geraldine A. "Gerri" (Dolce) Ziezio

VERONA BEACH – Geraldine A. “Gerri” (Dolce) Ziezio, age 80, formerly of Utica, passed peacefully following a brief illness on Monday, October 7, 2024. Born in Utica on November 2, 1943, Geraldine was the daughter of the late Gerald and Jane (Carnavale) Dolce. She was raised in the area and attended local schools. Gerri met Richard Ziezio in 1989. On December 31, 1994, they celebrated the end of another year by getting married. The couple truly shared an inseparable union of over 35 years creating many long-lasting memories. Gerri loved children and dedicated her life’s energy to operating her own daycare center. Her nickname was “Aunt Gerri” to everyone throughout the family, no matter their relation. Gerri enjoyed spending winters in Melbourne Beach, FL the last twenty-one years with her husband, making numerous and lasting friendships. She loved beaches, and sitting by the water. She appreciated the beauty of the Adirondacks, and the time she spent camping there. In her mind, a day was not complete without ice cream, as it was a treat she indulged in daily. Gerri was of the Catholic faith and was very spiritual throughout her life. Gerri is survived by her husband, Richard, who dedicated himself to giving her quality of life the last several years of her life as her sole caregiver; children, Richard, and Karen; grandchildren, Kayla Cracchiolo, who she shared a special relationship with and who was with her until the very end, Savannah, Sydney, Gabrielle, and Maria; and great-granddaughter, Alessandra Cracchiolo, her “Little Miss America.” She fondly remembered her sisters and brothers-in-law who preceded her, Theresa Marie “Terry” and Salvatore F. Mazzara, Jr., Carmella and Frank J. Manella, and Delores and Philip Turchetti. She further leaves to cherish her memory many nieces and nephews and their families, cousins; in-law, Cathy Mohr; many special friends that were always in contact with her and kept her in their hearts; and her “stepdog,” Kizmet. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the physicians at Oneida Health Hospital, particularly acknowledging Kristin Suchowiecki for her care and compassion. In honoring her wishes, there will be no visitation. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Geraldine’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Monday, October 14, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of Mount Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of the service. Please omit floral offerings. Interment will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. There will be a celebration of Gerri’s life at a later date.

Mrs. Geraldine A. "Gerri" (Dolce) Ziezio

November 2, 1943 - October 7, 2024