Mrs. Jeanette A. (Raya) Farewege

UTICA- Our dear mother, Jeanette Farewege, passed on July 12, 2021 in Florida at the age of 90, and now rests in the care of the Lord. Born January 1931 in her family home in Sheepshead Bay, NY, Jeanette was the daughter of Elias and Nellie (Manash) Raya, immigrants from Lebanon and Syria; she was the youngest of six children. She often regaled us of fond memories from her childhood, recalling her times at St Mark Catholic Academy, James Madison High School (Brooklyn), and Hairdressing School (NYC). In the early 50’s, Jeanette moved to Utica along with her parents, where she was introduced to and wooed by her husband of 40 years, Peter A. Farewege Sr., who entered into eternal rest in 1994. Jeanette was proudest of her three children – Rosie (Rose and husband Larry Pawlinga), Lulu (Louise and husband Michael Fultz) and Peter (Peter Jr and wife Hana), and fought her illness valiantly with all by her side. She also had special relationships with her grandchildren and great grandchildren and hated being away from them while convalescing in Florida. Her grandchildren: Laine, who created special memories for her “Sito” (Laine and Shawn Hajdasz Sr.); Stephen, who was a tried-and-true support for his “Sito” (Stephen Sr. and Samantha Pawlinga); and Peter Farewege III, who brought his “Sito” proud and precious moments through his love and accomplishments. She was lucky to be a great-grandmother to Shawn Jr., and Stephen Jr., and loved every minute of their time together. Jeanette was not only predeceased by her parents and husband – but also her three brothers and sisters-in-law, John and Elizabeth Raya, Frederick and Mabel Raya, and James and Mary Raya; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Anna and John Robbart, and Frieda and John Karrat; and in-laws, Mary and Edward Chanatry, Catherine Farewege, Gladys Farewege and Blaine Fitzpatrick, John and Phyllis Farewege, and Fred Farewege. She is survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. Jeanette has always been remembered and highly respected as a hard worker with a bubbly personality and a willing ear. Those in the Utica area will remember her as a welcoming smile at many local restaurants and stores. Jeanette was a parishioner of St Basil’s Melkite Catholic Church, and many years ago was a proud member of their Woman’s Club. Her Celebration of Life will commence at St. Basil’s Church, 901 Sherman Drive on Wednesday morning, July 21st at 10:30. All are welcome as the Divine Liturgy will be celebrated by Father Saba Shofany in Jeanette’s memory followed by committal prayers at Calvary Cemetery. Remembrances honoring Jeanette may be made through Liturgy offerings or donations to St. Basil’s Melkite Catholic Church; envelopes will be available in the vestibule of the church.