Mrs. Marie S. (Piperata) Morreale

MARCY/UTICA – On Thursday, September 25, 2025, Mrs. Marie S. (Piperata) Morreale, age 92, passed away peacefully, reuniting with her beloved Russell and other loved ones who had gone before her. Her family was by her side, their hearts filled with gratitude for a life so beautifully lived. Born in Utica on August 15, 1933, Marie was the daughter of the late Dominick J. and Laura M. (Pazzola) Piperata. She was one of nine siblings in a large and lively Italian family and was raised and educated locally. On September 20, 1958, Marie married the love of her life, Rosario J. “Russell” Morreale II. Their blessed union lasted over 33 years, until Russell’s passing on January 29, 1992. They dedicated their lives to one another, balancing the joys of raising their children while owning and operating Rosario’s Pizzerias. She fondly remembered her years working at General Electric and as a waitress at several local establishments. Marie possessed a kind and selfless spirit. She was truly the best mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend anyone could ask for. Deeply proud of her Italian heritage, she cherished her roots and lovingly passed down cherished traditions to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. Her home was a haven of warmth and hospitality, always filled with snacks, laughter, and an abundance of love. As everyone’s greatest supporter, she devoted her life to her family and created a lasting legacy of love that will continue for generations to come. Marie was a passionate New York Yankees fan who rarely missed a game. She celebrated every win with the same energy and dedication she showed in all areas of her life, often sporting her beloved Yankee apparel. She also loved a good card game of skat but wasn’t fond of losing! A devoted parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, Marie’s faith was central to her life. She faithfully attended weekly services with her siblings, always holding her rosary close. Marie will be remembered for these countless little moments that defined her: cherished memories at the pizzeria, her fierce loyalty to those she loved, and the way her face lit up whenever her family walked into the room. She truly lived life to the fullest—celebrating each day, standing tall through challenges, always finding joy in the simple things: family, friends, laughter, and a Yankees win. She loved to dance and was always the last one to leave the dance floor at any occasion. Marie is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Russell III and Gail Morreale; daughter and son-in-law, Catherine and Joseph Fitzgerald; grandchildren, Michael and Alissa Morreale, Meghan and Joshua Visalli, Matthew Morreale, William Schrader and Becca Kushner, and Cayla and Joshua Embry; great-grandchildren, Luca Visalli; Mia, Maddox, Macallan, and Maverick Embry; and brothers and sisters-in-law, Richard “Peppy” and Beverly Piperata, Victor and Brenda Piperata, James Piperata, William and Nancy Piperata, and Paul Piperata. She fondly remembered her siblings who preceded her, Loretta Purpura, Robert Piperata, and Frederick “Freddy Pep” Piperata. She is further survived by her in-laws, George Purpura, Diana Piperata, and Nancy Piperata; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and numerous surviving and predeceased friendships made throughout her life. She was additionally predeceased by her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Rosario and Catherine (LaBarbera) Morreale; in-laws, Mae and Rocco Galimo, and Mary Ritz; niece and goddaughter, Regina “Gina” Ferguson. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Abraham House of Rome for the compassionate and attentive care they provided to Marie and her family. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 p.m., at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Those unable to attend may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86369500795. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in Marie’s honor may be made to the Abraham House online at https://www.theabrahamhouse.org/ways-to-support/donate/; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Marie’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Friday, October 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery. This obituary was lovingly written by Marie’s family.

Mrs. Marie S. (Piperata) Morreale

August 15, 1933 - September 25, 2025