Mrs. Julie (Riente) Lilli

Mrs. Julie (Riente) Lilli, age 86, went home to be with the Lord and those who have gone before her when she passed away on Sunday, October 26, 2014. At the time of her passing, she was in the hearts of those she loved the most. Born in Frankfort on October 18, 1928, Julie was the daughter of the late John and Nora (Lodato) Riente, and was a graduate of Frankfort High School. On November 4, 1950 in St. Mary’s Church in Frankfort, Julie married James Anthony Lilli, former longtime Frankfort Village Trustee. The love for each other that Julie and James held in their hearts was admirable and absolute. Their family was the essence of their union, yet their nieces and nephews had a special place in their lives as well, and this was never forgotten by all those who were blessed to share their lives with them. Julie was a New York State licensed Hairdresser. Her first beauty salon was located on Main Street and she later opened her home to better serve her patrons. She catered to her clients and was loyal to all those who she was privileged to beautify. Julie loved that time of her life. Later in her working years, she accepted a position with the Frankfort Schuyler School System where she was assigned various duties and responsibilities with the district. In her personal life, Julie was a selfless woman and a gentle mom. Through her own upbringing, she learned the values and importance of family which was so evident in the love that her children conveyed to her. One of her greatest graces was hearing the word “grandma” from her grandson Anders who always brought a smile to her face. Holidays were supremely special to Julie and she prepared her family’s favorite foods and delectable cookies. In her humble way, she showed her appreciation and love for her family by keeping an organized and sparkling home. In springtime, she planted a vegetable garden that made her very proud. In summertime, she reveled in the relaxation of her pool which she meticulously maintained. In fact, many friends and family members learned to swim under Julie and Jim’s guidance. Although people were important to her, Julie found comfort and unconditional love in her canines, especially Grover. Julie was devout in all her civic endeavors which were important aspects of her life, including her position as Past President and longtime member of the Baldwin-Branck American Legion Post #845 Ladies Auxiliary, the Frankfort VFW, and her membership in the Columbiana Society. Because she was a woman of faith, when she faced adversity and illness she was at her strongest. Her family marveled at her fortitude and she was a haven of hope for those in need. Her personal spirituality was deep in her heart and the “Our Father” and “Hail Mary” prayers were a comfort to her soul. Her intentions for others were offered with great sincerity. Her home parish was St. Mary’s Church in Frankfort and she welcomed the merging of parishes and attended Our Lady Queen of Apostles. At one time, she was a member of the Altar Rosary Society and the Maria SS Addolorata Society. Julie is survived by her children, Sharon A. Lilli, with whom she shared a home; James M. Lilli of West Palm Beach, Florida, and John N. Lilli of Utica; and her adored grandson, Anders Michael Lilli. Also left to remember her goodness are her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, brother-in-law, John Attanas, longtime family friends and neighbors, Carolyn and Alfred Amendolare and family, and Deborah Dodge. The passing of members of her family was very difficult for Julie because of the closeness she shared with them. She was predeceased by her sisters, Rose Sharrino, Mary Acquaviva, and Carrie Sciortino; her brother, Anthony “Nan” Riente; her nephew and godson, Anthony Riente; nephew Angelo Riente; niece Carm Zogby, and nephew Jeffery Lilli; and her in-laws Mary Attanas, Rose Corriggio, Josephine Daley, Frances Kattato, Dominick Lilli, and Joseph Lilli. The family extends sincere appreciation to Julie’s longtime physicians and friends, Dr. Brenda Davies-Wait, and Kelly Rudd for their constant concern and outstanding care; the doctors, nurses, and staff of the Bassett Medical Center for the unmatched superior care and attention shown to our mother; and to Pastor Eddie and Mrs. Mims, and the congregation of the Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church for all their continued prayers. It has also been a great comfort to Julie’s children that their closest and treasured friends have kept them in their hearts during this journey of her life. Visitation will be held Saturday morning from 9:00-11:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South Street, corner of Hammond Ave. Donations in Julie’s memory may be considered to the DAV or to the Herkimer County Humane Society in remembrance of her love for animals; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Julie's funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday morning at 11:00 from the funeral home and at 12:00 noon at Our Lady Queen of Apostles Church in Frankfort where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Abe Esper. Julie will be laid to rest in Mt. Olivet Cemetery alongside her husband, who she has missed dearly since his passing on June 17, 1975. For those in need of transportation, please call the funeral home at 315-724-6714.

Mrs. Julie (Riente) Lilli

October 18, 1928 - October 26, 2014