Nancy R. Funicello

Mom passed away on New Year's Eve 2005. She was born in Barnesboro, PA, August 10, 1920 the only child of Leo and Immaculata (Falcone) Rodio with whom she moved to East Utica at an early age. She was among the first graduating class of T.R. Proctor High. On June 14, 1941 she married Alfred "Sarge" Funicello at St Mary Mt. Carmel Church. The love and devotion they felt for one another was inspiring and without question. During their married life, Nancy and Sarge relocated to Miami Shores, FL, (1948) and Van Nuys, CA (1952/53), but they returned home each time. Mom said she missed the change of seasons and hated the sunshine reflection off the Christmas tree tinsel. Mom held several employment positions, the last being with My Boy's Clothing in 1942. Her life's work, however, was that of homemaker, mother and nurturer and for these she should have been awarded an honorary PhD. She was among the best of wives and mothers. She not only reared her three sons, but lovingly assisted with her grandchildren and was always there for any of their friends; many of whom addressed her simply as "Ma" or "Gram." Her home was forever open and welcoming to all because Mom never met a stranger and she was always ready with hugs and kisses - and food. She considered food as an expression of love and woe to the visitor who didn't "eat enough"and then bring some home. Mom's cooking was legendary and it's unfortunate that it wasn't world renowned, but those of us who had the privilege will never forget. Her skill owed initially to training from her Mother-in-law, Congetta and then her own hard work. Her Christmas Eve and other holiday feasts will long be remembered. Like all of us Mom had her foibles. She never could operate machinery no matter how basic; a food processor and toaster oven remain unused. Her driving skills were always suspect; somehow drive-by window shopping seemed a good idea to her. And her woeful sense of direction will be recalled by Holly and Noel who, as children, repeatedly had to report, despite Gram's pleading that they not blab, "we got lost again" while riding with Mom in "Eloise" her 1973 Gremlin. Her attributes, however, were many in that she possessed a strong belief in God, an exuberant personality, a ready sense of humor, generosity to a fault and an enormous capacity of love and compassion for people and all living things. She would and often did give her last dollar to help someone and her concern extended from Catholic Missions and the disadvantaged to the feeding and well being of the backyard squirrel. She taught us by example to treat people as individuals and a hatred for prejudice. She was proud of her Italian heritage and loved listening to the music of Mario Lanza, Dean Martin and The Three Tenors. She liked old movies such as "The Good Earth," "Keys of the Kingdom" and, of course, "The Godfather" and also had a "thing" for Tyrone Power to whom she always referred as "my Tyrone." Nancy will be remembered for these and other things, but mainly she will be remembered for her love; because love never dies. Besides her beloved Sarge, Nancy leaves her sons and daughter-in-law, Leonard and Alyce Funicello, Al Funicello and his companion, Ronda Barlow, and Anthony and his companion Lisa Eustace. Also granddaughters and their husbands, Noel and James Day, Holly and Richard Maline and Bonnie Funicello. Also great-grandchildren Griffin and Hayden Day and Dana, Connor and Cameron Maline. The family also awaits the arrival of her sixth grandchild. Also favorite nephew and his wife Robert and Joanne Funicello and many other nieces, nephews, cousins and relatives. She also leaves special friend, Linda Perrymen who she considered the daughter she never had. She was predeceased by great-grandson Aaron Maline. We thank the nurses and staff of the Charles Sitrin Home for the quality care they gave Nancy during her unfortunate illness these past seven plus years. A special thank you is offered to Father Joseph Salerno who offered Nancy her final prayers and blessing. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Please consider remembering Nancy by a donation to a charity of your choice. Visitation for Nancy will take place on Friday from 4-7 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Her funeral will commence on Saturday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place at St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Maybe you now know how many lives and hearts you touched. It was a wonderful life. Thank you, God bless you and we'll all miss you. Bye Mom.

Nancy R. Funicello

August 10, 1920 - December 31, 2005