Gloria R. (Cittadino) Morreale

Mrs. Gloria R. (Cittadino) Morreale, age 78, of Utica, passed away on the afternoon of Christmas Eve, Thursday, December 24, 2009 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with her family by her side. Born in Utica on March 22, 1931, Gloria was the daughter of the late Frank and Philomena (Mazza) Cittadino. She was raised and educated in Utica and attended local schools. On September 7, 1953 she wed Thomas J. Morreale with whom she shared 56 years in a compatible marriage; they truly loved one another, shared common values, and complemented each other’s personality. After spending years at home raising her boys, Gloria entered the work force at the Price Chopper Grocery Store as one of the area’s first super samplers, where she carried out the responsibilities of a team leader. A snapshot of Gloria’s life would capture her ability to converse with anyone with ease, would focus on her unselfish love of family and extended loved ones, and would softly highlight a smile that could radiate a room. It would render a portrait of a woman with an unforgettable personality, one who entertained with style and grace. Sundays at Gloria’s home were teeming with great food and fun in the pool, and were so welcoming that the family felt like they were at "Coney Island." Music of all types touched Gloria’s soul, and she was involved with local church choirs and ministerial productions. But her greatest natural gift was her ability to be an amazing and giving mother who catered to her family’s needs and loved them unconditionally. She knew how to connect with her sons with heartfelt concern to get a point across, and they respected her. The blessings of her family, (her “three boys”), her husband and two sons, was her greatest joy. She enjoyed cooking, baking, participating in bus trips with the Whitesboro Senior Center, and singing with the church choir at her parish, St. Louis Gonzaga Church. Gloria is survived by her husband, Tom; and her sons and daughter-in-law, Vincent T. and Christine Morreale of Whitesboro, and Thomas J. Morreale, Jr. Survivors also include her sister, Carmella “Mella” Cittadino of Utica; her many and cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and sister-in-law, Madeline Cittadino. She was also blessed with many wonderful friends and neighbors, especially acknowledging her lifelong friend, Dolores Massa. She was predeceased by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Mary L. and Alphonso F. “Al” Fragola, Caroline and Rufus Casaletta, and Jennie Cittadino; her brothers and sister-in-law, Dominick “Duber” Cittadino, and Joseph and Rose Cittadino; and her in-laws, James and Antoinette (Castronovo) Morreale, Fred and Beverly S. Morreale, and Marie and Dave Guido. The family is grateful to Dr. Scott Brehaut, and Dr. Timothy Mathis for their compassion and dedication in caring for Gloria; the personnel at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center and their Rehabilitation Department all of whom embraced Gloria with much love, devotion, and loyalty; and Chorbishop John D. Faris for his spiritual support and the tender way he cared for Gloria and Tom. Visitation will be held Sunday (today) from 2:00-5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The Prayer of Incense will be offered on Sunday afternoon at 4:30 at the funeral home. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Gloria’s funeral service will commence on Monday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Louis Gonzaga Church, where the Divine Liturgy of the Faithful Departed will be celebrated by Chorbishop John D. Faris, Pastor. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Gloria R. (Cittadino) Morreale

March 22, 1931 - December 24, 2009