Kelly L. (Quinn) Reali-Caputo

WEST UTICA - Kelly L. (Quinn) Reali-Caputo, age 57, peacefully went home to the Angels on Sunday, March 5, 2017 in the comfort of her home with her loving family by her side. Born in New Hartford on May 13, 1959, Kelly was the daughter of Judy A. (Paige) Quinn and the late Joseph “Richard” Quinn. She was a graduate of Whitesboro High School/Class of 1977. In July of 1977 she married the love of her life and father of her children, Michael C. Reali with whom she shared many good years. She followed his career as a drummer and was his greatest fan. His untimely passing in the fall of 1999 was a tragedy to her and their children. In 2005, after many years of dating, she married Michael A. Caputo. He was a positive influence on their family life and he loved her unconditionally. He enriched her life and she was grateful to him. Michael passed away on November 27, 2007. Kelly’s giving, caring spirit was reflected in her many selfless acts as a family advocate at Headstart, a career that spanned 25 years. She then held a position at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center in the Labor & Delivery Department until accepting a promotion to the St. Elizabeth Medical Center as a Surgical Technician, the position from which she retired in 2010. Kelly was an amazing woman who loved unconditionally, with sensitivity and understanding. She was simply special, someone who touched the lives and hearts of many, young and old. Kelly knew how to smile even in her weakest time, sharing with everyone the joy that comes from such a simple act. She may have lived a short life, but she made the most of every day and enjoyed each experience with good grace and a grateful heart. She fought fearlessly through the most challenging circumstances, with strength and self-respect. To her children, she left a legacy of her hope and high spirits in the face of adversity, and they are so proud to inherit her will to persevere. Kelly shared her compassion and personal space with those in need; they could call her home their home. Christmas Eve was her special day and the grandest of times. She decorated and prepared a spread to please everyone at the table and set the stage for perfection for that special night. Her home had a holiday theme and a tree gleamed in every room. Her love for family had its roots with her parents and siblings and continued on to her five daughters. When they began to have families of their own, she loved her “Pea Pods”, nicknames for her grandchildren beginning with the letter ‘P’. She also had a special relationship with each of her nieces and nephews and was known to family and friends as “Aunt Kelly”. She was a self-taught artist who worked intuitively in a variety of mediums. Her creative craft also included music which was her outlet. And, she could dance up a storm. A word to the wise, “don’t be anywhere near her shoulder when “Wipe-Out” played” for she would clear the floor! Kelly drew up a bucket list when she was diagnosed. It included taking her entire family to Disney World and “Nana Queen Bee” magically knew no pain. She dreamed that she had attended a Miami Dolphins/Buffalo Bills football game and on this Christmas Eve past she was escorted by her grandson Mikey to attend the game which went into overtime. The Dolphins won and it was another great day in her days of wishes granted. Kelly was of the Episcopalian faith and shared a personal relationship with God. Kelly is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Christina A. Reali, Susan L. Reali, Tiffany and Derek Roberts, Laurie and Brandon Morrissette, and Kimberly L. Reali; her mom, Judy Paige; her grandchildren/‘Pea Pods’, Donté, and Ámya; Mikey, and Audrina; Julia, and Madisen; Farrah, Olivia, and Phoenix. She also leaves her siblings, Karen and Chris LaTour, Jeff and Chrissy Quinn, Korey and Steven Woodard, Ted and Carolyn Quinn, Ryan Quinn and Jill Dixon-Mitchell; her stepmother, Patricia Quinn; cherished nephews and nieces; great-nephews, great-nieces, in-laws, Judy Riolo, Tony and Char Reali, and Diane Munn. Kelly was blessed with friends who she loved as family, Rosie Levinia, Toni Velazquez, Cathy and Jack, and Florence and Barry Fabrey. She was predeceased by her stepdad, Charles Bolon; and beloved friends, Carol, Donna, and Gladys, as well as many others. The family extends their appreciation to the staff of the Regional Cancer Center and the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center; the personnel of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., especially the angels, Crystal, Ann, and Irene. Special thanks to Heather and Kayleigh who were personal nurses and outstanding friends to Kelly and the family. Visitation will be held Friday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Kelly's funeral service and Christian Celebration of Life will commence on Friday evening at 7:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Rev. Mike Jones, officiating the ceremony. Interment will take place at Forest Hill Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Kelly L. (Quinn) Reali-Caputo

May 13, 1959 - March 5, 2017