Mrs. Mary L. (Caruso) Panella

WHITESBORO – Mrs. Mary L. (Caruso) Panella, age 99, passed away on Sunday evening, March 6, 2022, in the comfort and dignity of her home. Born in Perryville, NY on December 13, 1922, to the late Nicandro “Nick” and Lucia “Lucy” (Fortuna) Caruso, Mary relocated to Utica with her family at the age of three. On August 4, 1945, Mary was united in marriage to Peter A. Panella. The couple shared a loving and devoted union of over 37 years prior to Peter’s passing on November 26, 1982. Not a patient man while on earth, Peter was forced to wait 40 years for his bride to finally join him in Heaven. Those who knew the loving couple are comforted to think of the joyous reunion that awaited them both. Mary started her working life at the Utica Knitting Mill. She later worked as an Electrical Inspector at the General Electric Co. at both the French Road and Broad Street locations; between the two, Mary collectively gave over thirty years of dedicated service. A strong-willed woman, Mary was known for her determination. She would not tolerate gossip, and even more impressively, Mary was a three-time cancer survivor. As a survivor, Mary was able to find meaning in her journey by helping others through their battles with the disease. Mary had a fondness for coffee, chocolate, and tote bags. Additionally, she loved travelling, frequenting the casino, and enjoyed playing a good game of Bingo. In her free time, Mary could be found participating in activities at both the NY Mills and Whitesboro Senior Centers. A woman of faith, Mary believed in the Catholic Creed and was a long-time parishioner at St. John the Evangelist Church. Mary is survived by her daughter, Lorraine M. Panella; her son, Joseph A. Panella and his family; and by the family of her son Richard M. Panella, who predeceased her in 2017. Mary also leaves behind three grandsons, one granddaughter, one step-grandson, and two great-granddaughters. She will live on in the hearts of many nieces, especially Lucille Battelene; nephews, especially Stephen Caruso; great-nieces; great-nephews; and cousins. Mary will be remembered by her in-laws, Joan Panella, and Sally Panella; as well as her dear friends, Carmella Dee, and Laura Tinelli. Mary was predeceased by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Philip A. and Natalie Caruso, Ralph and Mary Grace Caruso, and her infant brother, Ernest Caruso; her brothers-in-law, Humbert J. Panella, Sr., Philip Panella, and Paul Panella; and her beloved nephews, Ernest R. Caruso, Humbert J. Panella, Jr., and Paul F. Panella. The family would like to extend their gratitude to Grace at St. Paul’s Church, for making it possible for Mary to receive the sacraments regularly. Additionally, the family is grateful to the AIM/Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. programs, with special recognition given to Angela, Mallory, Karen, Georgia, and Beverly, who treated Mary with respect and compassion. Thanks is also extended to Marcia Caldwell for assisting with Mary’s care. A private service will be held, and interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Mrs. Mary L. (Caruso) Panella

December 13, 1922 - March 6, 2022