Mr. Joseph R. DeCola, Sr.

E. UTICA – Joseph R. DeCola, Sr., age 99, peacefully passed away on Saturday, July 12, 2025, on he and his beloved wife Gloria’s 73rd wedding anniversary. At the time of his passing his loving family was by his side. Born in Utica on St. Joseph’s Day, March 19, 1926, Joseph was the son of the late August and Maria (Tomassi) DeCola. He was born in the family home and remained there for the entirety of his life! On July 12, 1952, Joseph wed the former Gloria A. Nalli. The couple shared in a loving and devoted union. He proudly claimed that she was the love of his life. Joseph worked for Utica Corporation as a polisher for blades used on jets, the position from which he retired. A family man at his core, Joseph relished time spent with his family and friends. He was a selfless man who made any and all sacrifices for his family. He did all that he could for them, and he was immensely proud of his children and their accomplishments. Joseph also volunteered annually for the Boilermaker Road Race. A creative man by nature, Joseph could be considered as the best tomato pie maker. He dabbled in making root beer and also took pride in his father’s homemade wine that he helped him make. He even made and delivered bleach to the neighborhood! A parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church, Joseph was actively involved in parish activities, including volunteering for their annual feasts and acting as an usher during masses. Joseph is survived by his beloved wife, Gloria; children and their loves, Maria and Bob Gregorka, Jackie DeCola and Mike Giancotti, and Joseph R. Jr. and Terry DeCola; grandchild, Joseph Luke and Jessica DeCola. He held close to his heart the memories of his siblings and their spouses who preceded him, Angelo DiSpirito, his twin Jack DeCola, Henry and Isabel DiSpirito, Marie and Joseph J. Dote, Jr., Viola Benner, and Emma Lou Richard. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. He is additionally predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Frank and Elisabetta A. Nalli. “Dad, we hope you are still kicking like a horse!” The family extends their gratitude to the nurses and staff of MVHS Rehabilitation and Nursing Center for their care and compassion. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Joseph’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church, 422 Tilden Ave. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of Mass. In lieu of floral offerings, please share in an act of kindness. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mr. Joseph R. DeCola, Sr.

March 19, 1926 - July 12, 2025