Mrs. Lois L. (Evans) Dellerba

UTICA – Mrs. Lois L. (Evans) Dellerba, age 63, passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in the comfort and dignity of her home, although her death was unforeseen. Born in Ilion on March 15, 1963, Lois was the daughter of Darlene M. (Encarnacao) Evans Woolheater and the late Richard Evans. She was also blessed to know the love of her stepfather, William R. Woolheater, Sr., who was an instrumental part of her life. Lois was a proud graduate of T. R. Proctor High School, Class of 1981. On July 30, 1982, she united in marriage with Anthony M. “Tony” Dellerba, embarking on a nearly 44-year journey together. Having married at a young age, they experienced life side by side—through all of its ups and downs. They were truly blessed to have shared so many years and were a devoted couple who cared for and supported one another in every season of life. At one time, Lois was employed as a purchaser at Sturges Manufacturering. She also worked as a bartender and waitress at Casa Bella, Blue Moon, and the Black Cat Bar and Grill until her health no longer allowed her to continue working. A mother’s love is like nothing else, and her boys knew it well. Her children were her greatest joy and proudest accomplishment in life. Lois was also blessed with a dear best friend, Gina LaValla, with whom she shared a friendship spanning more than 50 years. Their final “Thelma and Louise” adventure was an impromptu trip to Nashville. Lois enjoyed vacationing with family and friends in many places, though the ocean was always her favorite. In earlier years, she also loved camping with her husband and children in the Adirondacks and at Oneida Lake. She could often be found at the Turning Stone with her sisters, playing bingo. She enjoyed many breakfast outings with friends and especially cherished the fish fries she shared with her mother-in-law. Lois took great pride in her collection of long-stem glass roses, which she beautifully displayed on her dining room table and atop her bedroom dresser. Although her difficulty with balance sometimes led to a few being accidentally broken, her beloved husband, Tony, respectfully replaced each one. Lois had a deep appreciation for floral gardening and enjoyed watching her flowers come into bloom. She found it uplifting to see the variety of colors brighten her garden and took quiet joy in tending to them. A family ritual with her sisters, as well as a time when her niece and sons would come together in preparation for their Christmas eve celebration was the annual making of handmade pierogi whether filled with potato and cheese or sauerkraut, they were always a staple at the celebration of the season. Lois was a woman of faith who held a personal relationship with the Lord. Lois is survived by her beloved husband, Tony; and sons, Anthony M. Dellerba, Jr., and Joseph “Joey” Dellerba. She also carried in her heart the cherished memory of her infant son, Joshua Dellerba, who has awaited her in eternity since 1983. She additionally leaves to remember her fondly, her mother, Darlene Woolheater; siblings and their spouses, Beth “Sarge” and Dan Elsenbeck, Dolores and Earl Sommers, Mark and Tamika Evans, and Julie and Mark Harris; her in-laws, Steven and Amy Dellerba, Richard and Stephanie Dellerba, Allen and Brandy Dellerba and, Nancy Wameling, Tina and Dave Stark, and Joy M. and Richard Mariano; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Lois also leaves behind her dear friends from all walks of life—her breakfast companions, travel friends, and Bingo girls—who meant as much to her as family. Her loss is also felt by her cherished canine companion, Cocoa, an affectionately tempered Shih Tzu, and her “grand fur baby,” Daisy, the yellow Labrador. She was further predeceased by her in-laws, Anthony and Suzanne (Klein) Dellerba. The Dellerba family would like to thank the staffs of the oncologists and physicians’ offices who, throughout the years, provided Lois with excellent care and compassion. All will remain in the hearts of her family. A Memorial Gathering in Lois’ honor will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. A Memorial Farewell Service will commence at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home. By family request, please omit floral offerings.

Mrs. Lois L. (Evans) Dellerba

March 15, 1963 - April 14, 2026