Judith E. "Judy" (Gilbert) Donato

Mrs. Judith E. “Judy” (Gilbert) Donato, age 68, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, November 23, 2012 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on September 9, 1944, Judith was the daughter of the late Harold and Aileen (Bragg) Gilbert. She attended Utica Free Academy. On August 31, 1963 she married Theodore A. “Ted” Donato with whom she shared 49 years in a storybook union bound by everlasting love. Judy was a woman who watched over her family and ensured a warm, safe, and caring environment for her loved ones. Being a good matriarch was her first priority in life, and she was blessed with an invaluable wealth of family support. Judy’s maternal instincts made her a perfect match for her position with the Utica City School District, the job from which she retired. A kind and sensitive soul, Judy saw the good in people. Her house was the heart of her family; it was open to all, and was home to several generations. During her spare time, she enjoyed playing bingo. She loved family gatherings and holidays, especially Thanksgiving. She was a parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Judy is survived by her beloved husband, Teddy; her son and daughter-in-law, Angelo and Tammy Donato of Whitesboro; her daughters, Aileen Steppello, Michele Damiano and Tom Fabbio, and Susan and Reggie Washington, all of Utica; her 15 grandchildren, Teddy, Christina, Angelo, Madalyn, Steven, Dominic, Sal, Jarron, Anthony, Brianna, Jakob, Nico, Jordan, Jayleen, Gia; a great-granddaughter Cristiana; and one on the way that Judy anticipated with joy. Her extended family includes her sister, Juanita Kallassy; her much-loved nieces and nephews; her in-laws Mary Fiorentino, Connie and Anthony Scalise, and Sharon Gilbert; and her many dear friends she left behind. She was predeceased by her brothers, John Gilbert, and James Gilbert; her sister and brother-in-law, Janet and Bill Getman; and her brother-in-law, Michael A. Fiorentino. The family is grateful to the staff of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center and all Judy’s family members and friends who offered their support. A special thank you is offered to Dr. Toby Taylor for all of his care and concern. Visitation will be held Tuesday afternoon from 4:00-6:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Judy’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Wednesday morning at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Judith E. "Judy" (Gilbert) Donato

September 9, 1944 - November 23, 2012