Isabella A. (Marraffa) Cristalli

Mrs. Isabella A. (Marraffa) Cristalli, age 94, formerly of Rutger St., Utica, and currently a resident of the Presbyterian Home for CNY, passed away on Tuesday, November 14, 2006, at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center. Born in Utica on March 28, 1912, Isabella was the daughter of the late Joseph and Victoria (Angelini) Marraffa. Raised and educated in Utica, she attended local schools, and furthered her studies and skills at the Utica School of Commerce. On August 22, 1936, in St. Anthony of Padua Church, she married Anthony S. Cristalli, with whom she shared 37 years until his passing on June 3, 1974. For Isabella, her marriage to Anthony was perfect, a match truly made in heaven. Their devotion to each other was extraordinary, and she spoke lovingly of her husband long after his passing. At one time, Isabella worked as a legal secretary for a local attorney, and subsequently was a cashier/clerk at the Boston Store, working in various departments prior to her retirement. A grand and delightful lady, she was a worthy and loving mother, the ‘best mom anyone could ever have’. Her family’s comfort and happiness was always her priority. During her leisure time, she enjoyed knitting and crocheting and shared her beautiful handiworks with family. A devoutly religious woman, Isabella was a member of the Saints Cosmo and Damiano Society, the Pugliese Society, and the St. Ann’s Society. She was a communicant and Eucharistic minister at the former Church of the Blessed Sacrament, and was a member of the Altar Rosary Society. Mrs. Cristalli was a loving mother to her daughter and son-in-law who survive her, Regina Mary and Steven Katz of Tucson, AZ. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Aram Katz, and Michael Katz, both of Arizona; her nieces and nephews, John J. Lucarelli and Sharon Morton, Michael J. and Barbara Cristalli, and Elaine and Ralph Polito; her great-nieces and great-nephews, Victoria Lucarelli, Margaret Mary Polito, and Joseph Polito. In addition, she leaves her beloved friends, Father Michael J. Carmola, Father Kevin Hannon, and John Talerico, and the many friends that she made at the Presbyterian Home during her stay there. She was predeceased by her sisters, Ortenza Marraffa and Ortenza “Orrie” Davis; her in-laws, Michael and Mary Cristalli, Sister Mary Cleta, and Sister M. Concepta; and her dear friends, Fannie Arcuri and Marge Reilly. The entire family offers its heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff of the Presbyterian Home for CNY, and the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center for their concern and compassion; to Rev. Michael J. Carmola, Rev. Kevin Hannon, Rev. Bob Kelly, and Sister Theresa Waldron for their visits, spiritual prayers and guidance; and a special thanks to her nephew John, and his family Sharon, and Victoria, for their constant care, concern, and love shown to Isabella throughout her life and during her last days. Visitation will be held today (Sunday) from 2-5 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Mrs. Cristalli’s funeral will commence on Monday morning at 8:30 at the funeral home and at 9:30 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish at Mt. Carmel Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Michael J. Carmola. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Isabella A. (Marraffa) Cristalli

March 28, 1912 - November 14, 2006