Mrs. Joyce V. (Tomaino) Hadity

Mrs. Joyce V. “Joy Baby” (Tomaino) Hadity, age 62, of Utica, passed away on Sunday, October 16, 2011 at her daughter’s home, after a courageous battle with brain cancer. She was surrounded by the support and love of her family as she became their guardian angel. Born in Utica on June 13, 1949, Joyce was the daughter of Joseph A. Tomaino, Sr. and the late Ida A. “Mima” (Zebrowski) Tomaino. Raised and educated in Utica, she was a 1966 graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. She continued her academic studies at Utica College of Syracuse University where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting, and continued her post-graduate work at SUNY Binghamton where she received her Master’s Degree in Business Management. On November 25, 1995, she married Dr. Toffe M. Hadity, DDS, who passed away on August 16, 2006; their love was sincere and their companionship constant. They shared a mutual admiration and a respect for each other and treasured every moment spent together, especially their worldwide travels and adventures. Joyce was well rooted in her work ethic when she began her career as a professor at M.V.C.C. where she taught Accounting. She then accepted a position with Irving Trust Corporation later known as Bank of New York. She lastly held the title of Vice-President at BNY Mellon Bank, at their Oriskany location. Joyce was a multi-faceted woman who had an eye for detail and a flair for decorating. Whether painting a room, remodeling, or wood crafting, her renovations spoke of her individuality. She was also passionate about gardening and adorning her home with her graceful plants and beautiful flowers. A special talent, which she developed and shared with her mother, was her love of sewing, making garments beautiful beyond words. Numbered among the things in life that made her happiest were the successful and secure love she shared with her beloved Toffe, who was the love of her life, as well as the joy and pride she felt in her heart for her children. As a mother, Joyce was so aware of her place in their lives, and although she encouraged them to live independent and full family lives; she was never happier then when they were all gathered, especially for Christmas Eve because of the “Joy” they meant to one another. Her joyous smile beamed during the Christmas season, her favorite time of the year. She had a great love of the arts, taking in every show or musical performance she could. She was a devoted parishioner of Historic Old St. John’s Church and a soprano in the church choir for over 35 years. Joyce is survived by her children, Marc and Laurie Scotti of Holley, NY, Stacey (Scotti) and William Paolozzi of Sauquoit, who opened their home for her care with unconditional love, and their father Gerald Scotti. As close to her heart as her own children, were the children of her beloved Toffe: Toffe M. “Chip” II and Ellie Hadity of New Hartford, John F. Hadity of NYC, and Michael J. and Lynn Hadity of Long Island; her father, Joseph A. Tomaino, Sr; and her grandchildren, Gregory, Carey, Ryan, Shaun, Sarah, Joshua, and Alexandria. Also left to mourn her passing are her sisters and brother-in-law, Sandra, who has shown extreme devotion and compassion, and Harold Dowell of Whitesboro, and Bernice Marconi of Utica; her brother and sister-in-law, Joseph A., Jr. and Lee Tomaino of Concord, NH; her nieces and nephews, especially her goddaughter, Valarie Lutz, who holds a special place in the heart of Joyce and for the honor and respect she has shown throughout Joyce’s journey and Valarie’s husband, Dan, for his support; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and goddaughters, Chelsea Rose and Stephanie Vogel. Joyce was also favored by her best friends and traveling companions, Joan (her “BFF”) and Stephen Sotherden, as well as Linda Koperda, who filled Joyce’s heart with sisterly love. She was predeceased by her dear friend, Genevieve Montana. Joyce was embraced by the professional and heartfelt care of her physician, Dr. Guy McKhann II of the Neurological Institute at Columbia University Medical Center. Her days were made more comfortable and safe by her honest relationship with Bonnie McCarthy, who became an instant friend and member of the family. She also enjoyed her time with Jamie who provided gentle humor and love. Joyce’s body and soul was nourished by the love shown by her weekly visitors who expressed their love by sharing quiet moments as well as laughter, companionship and meals. Warm thanks to Sister Betty for her spiritual guidance. Joyce’s family also extends its thanks and appreciation to Dr. Roger Moore for his knowledge and guidance in Joyce’s care. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 4-7 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Floral offerings are graciously accepted. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the Neurological Institute of New York at Columbia University Medical Center (payable to Trustees of Columbia University) or to Historic Old St. John’s Church; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Joyce’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Thursday morning at 9:00 from the funeral home and at 10:00 at Historic Old St. John’s Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. John Buehler. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery alongside her beloved Toffe.

Mrs. Joyce V. (Tomaino) Hadity

June 13, 1949 - October 16, 2011