Mrs. Helen (Plescia) Durso

Mrs. Helen (Plescia) Durso, age 92, passed away on Saturday, April 6, 2013 at the Presbyterian Home for CNY, Inc. comforted with the prayers and support of her family. Helen was born in Utica on April 15, 1920, the daughter of the late John and Philomena (Ciaralli) Plescia. She was raised and educated locally. On September 13, 1941 she married Dominick Durso with whom she shared 29 years until his passing on June 12, 1971. A hard working couple, Helen and Dominick were committed to their support of each other, and much of their activities revolved around family. Like so many people of her generation, Helen worked at the local knitting mills, then at the General Electric Radio Receiver Plant on Bleecker Street as an assembler, and lastly at Mele Manufacturing. A best friend to her children, her intentions were always to do as much for them as she possibly could, a legacy that they sincerely appreciated. She was a wonderful “Non”, and acted as a second mother to her grandchildren. Helen led a simple, yet meaningful life which was made more comfortable by the reciprocal love and respect of her family. Her greatest accomplishment was raising her children and knowing the joys that her grandchildren brought to her heart. They were her foremost treasures. She was a member of the North Utica Senior Center where she enjoyed crocheting and arts & crafts. She also had fun playing a friendly hand of cards with Flo Gentile and Thelma Skane, as well as bingo at the casino and American Legion. Helen is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Phyliss and Anthony Gentile with whom she shared a home for many years; her son, Michael Durso of Ithaca, her son and daughter-in-law, John and Maria Durso of Utica, and the memory of her son, James J. Durso, who preceded her in death on June 20, 1993; and her grandchildren, Anthony Gentile, Lisa Gentile, Dana Gentile; John Durso, Michael Durso, and A.J. Durso. She also leaves her nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws, Antoinette Raab, Adele Palazza, and Carmella Dragotto; and her longtime and dear friend, Kay Cerminaro. She was predeceased by her sister, Mary Yero. Helen’s family is grateful to the staff of the Presbyterian Adult Day Center for the care and support which allowed the family to care for Helen at home for a longer period of time; thanks also to the personnel of the Cedar Unit who tended to Helen with much comfort and dignity. Visitation will be held on Monday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Helen’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered. Her prayers of final committal will be offered in church and her beloved pallbearers will escort her to Calvary Cemetery to her place of rest.

Mrs. Helen (Plescia) Durso

April 15, 1920 - April 6, 2013