Mrs. Mildred P. "Millie" (Sopo) Della Gala

Mrs. Mildred P. “Millie” (Sopo) Della Gala, age 88, passed away and joined those who went before her on Tuesday, August 16, 2016 in the comfort of her home with those she loved by her side. Born in Utica on August 31, 1927, Mildred was the daughter of the late Stephen and Rose (Tomaselli) Sopo. Raised and educated locally, she attended Utica schools. On June 25, 1949 she married Joseph D. Della Gala with whom she shared a marriage of their era. Theirs was a loyal and loving union of nearly 64 years until Joseph’s passing on April 20, 2013. The mainstay of Millie’s life was to be an understanding wife, a mom who knew each of her children as individuals, as well as a housewife who fulfilled her role as a matriarch. As her children reached school age, she attended M.V.C.C. where she completed courses and earned her certification as a Teacher Assistant. Millie accepted a position with the Utica City School District as a Teacher’s Aide at J.F. Hughes School. It was a match made in heaven because she loved the children with all her heart… and they knew it and loved her back. Millie was blessed with a benevolent nature and mild manner. She lived each day as a gift from God and accepted it with thanks. She took pride in herself and her children, an attribute that honored her husband. Millie’s children came first, and when her grandchildren came along, she loved her role as grandma and looked upon them as little miracles made by the Lord. Her generosity of spirit shined in their eyes, and when she became a great-grandmother it was a most honorable place in her life. Millie was a great cook and baker, hosting the holidays with festive dinners and decorations that took weeks to put in place around the house. She enjoyed reading romance novels and found pleasure in paperback books. She was a skilled seamstress and delighted in designing and sewing clothing for her children. She also crocheted many items, especially purses. Although the last ten years of her life were beset by health challenges, Millie remained strong and never lost hope. She did not want to leave her family, but she crossed over her way, with dignity and appreciation for all the beautiful years she was granted. Her children take comfort in knowing she is in peace and in the company of those she loved long ago. Millie is survived by her daughters, Jodi Miller of Utica/Florida, and Denise Gaffney and fiance Patrick Pickard. Always close to her heart was the memory of her daughter, Phyllis P. Leuthauser who passed away on October 6, 2014. Also surviving is her son-in-law Jerry. She will be remembered by her grandchildren, Marjorie R. and Jason Cruger, Nolan Leuthauser and Sarah Leight; Jessica Leo, Anthony and Nicole Leo, Nicole Leo and Karl Paulson, Sarah and Michael DeLosh, Ashley Miller, Joseph Miller; Shawn Gaffney, and Alyssa Gaffney; her ten great-grandchildren; and her sister, Angeline Penge. Her extended family includes her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, sisters-in-law, Congetta “Connie” Della Gala, and Mary P. Della Gala; and her dear friends, and helpful neighbors. She was predeceased by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Marion and Joseph Capozella, and Rose and Joseph Colicci; her brother, Joseph Sopo; and her in-laws, Marco Penge, Isabel Della Gala, Louise and Anthony Falange, Enrico “Chick” and Gloria Della Gala, Raymond M. Della Gala, and Anthony P. Della Gala. The family extends gratitude to the staff of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. who provided comfort to the family with their kind words and their compassionate care to Millie. Her great-granddaughters, Samantha Paulson and Savannah Miller, embraced the moments with sincere love which lifted Millie’s spirits. In truth, it took a village of people to bring her to this place of peace. Visitation will be held Saturday from 12:00-1:30 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Mildred’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday afternoon at 1:30 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Rev. Abe Esper officiating the ceremony. Interment will take place at St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mrs. Mildred P. "Millie" (Sopo) Della Gala

August 31, 1927 - August 16, 2016