Mary A. (Falvo) Fierro

Mary A. (Falvo) Fierro, age 97, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 11, 2013 at St. Elizabeth Medical Center with her loving family by her side. Born on March 4, 1916, Mary was the daughter of the late Frank and Angeline (Valella) Falvo, and she also knew the love of her step-father, Patsy Ferriola. Raised in Utica, she received her education in local schools. Mary was a hardworking and helpful associate at the iconic Ben Franklin variety store, and later an employee of DeIorio’s Bakery. Lastly, she held a sales position at Albert’s Hosiery at their various locations where she loved being with people and serviced her clientele with personal concern until her retirement. Mary embraced life and all its responsibilities with much determination and grace. Foremost was the well-being of her children and as head of her household she provided them a precious upbringing filled with the virtues that only a mother could share. As a true confidant and source of generosity and spirit, she never failed to be kind and thoughtful whether it be support, strength, or simply standing by their side at a difficult time. She generated the loyalty and admiration of her family to the very end of her days. Mary was a woman who held a great affection for dogs, and she had the companionship of many throughout her life. She currently knew the love of her canine friend, Jeter. At one time she was a member of the former Corn Hill Senior Center where she enjoyed friendships, bingo, and trips with her fellow seniors. During her spare time, she engaged in crossword puzzles, reading, ceramics, and games of chance at the casino. Along with her family, she rooted for the NY Yankees as well as the NY Knicks. Mary was ever present to the Lord in her heart and recited the rosary daily and kept many people in her prayers. She was a parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Mary is survived by her son, James J. Fierro; and her daughter and son-in-law, Pauline and Ralph J. Giovinazzo, Jr., all of New Hartford and all who lovingly carried out daily commitments to Mary’s care. The second loves of her life were her grandchildren, Kimberly Vitagliano and Paul Vitagliano, Marlo and Louis Manzo, and Ralph J. III and Corinne Giovinazzo; her great-grandchildren who affectionately regarded Mary as “More Nani”, Paul and Tommy; Gia and Michael; and Jenna Mary. Her extended family includes her nieces and nephews, Betty and Harry Turner, Angela and Bob Rice, Paul and Diana Notaro, and Joseph and Elizabeth Notaro; great-nieces, great-nephews, sister-in-law, Miss Mary Fierro; and the many wonderful friendships with which she was blessed during her lifetime. She was predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law, Racheal and Peter Notaro; and her brother, Paul Falvo. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Fred Talarico who was not only her professional caretaker, but also became a dear friend, NP Pat Rosato, and their office staff; and the entire staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center including the Emergency Room, and 2D. The family is also grateful to the many friends who were concerned about Mary during trying times. The family will honor and commemorate Mary’s life at a private time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Mary’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Tuesday 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. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the Mass. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the Stevens-Swan Humane Society or a charity of choice; envelopes will be available at the service. Entombment will take place in Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum at Holy Trinity Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mary A. (Falvo) Fierro

March 4, 1916 - May 11, 2013