Mrs. Philomena M. "Phyllis" (Fiorillo) Martin

NC/UTICA - Mrs. Philomena M. "Phyllis" (Fiorillo) Martin, age 80, passed away peacefully in the comfort and dignity of her son Michael’s home on Wednesday, July 5, 2023. At the time of her passing, she was in the company of her loved ones. Born in Utica on January 30, 1943, Phyllis was the daughter of the late Leo Lawrence and Clairabelle (Boucher) Fiorillo. She attended Roosevelt Grammar School and was graduate of Utica Free Academy/Class of 1961. On May 20, 1972 Phyllis wed James M. “Jim” Martin. Jim passed away early in the lives of his wife and children, but their memories of him were filled with Sunday picnics in notable area parks. Jim was a great husband and provider, along with being an incredible father to his two boys who he shared a humble regard for. Upon Jim’s passing Phyllis gained employment as a lunch lady at Notre Dame High School within the Syracuse Diocese. She dedicated her days to her vocation and retired as a Child Nutrition Manager. The rest of her day was dedicated to caring for her boys and making sure that dinner was on the table. Her Sunday dinners are remembered as unmatched, as her sons can name their many favorite dishes. Although Phyllis was known to command respect, she had an easy-going temperament. She could banter with the best of them, with no limitations on the location. At times, Phyllis was pertinent with nailing her target with her Daniel Green slipper, and never missing. It was a reminder and a refresher of her children's behavior. To compliment that hilarious act of reminding everyone that she was in charge, she also was quite a hoot! She always put family first as it was her strength and made family gatherings a priority. Back in the day, she enjoyed playing rummy, gin, and pitch with dimes and nickels as wagers – truly another family forum. Phyllis loved the Lord with her whole heart and invited her sons to receive their sacraments; her deeds were known to the Lord and her children find solace in knowing she is at peace in His presence. Phyllis is survived by her sons and daughter-in-law, Michael and Melynda Martin, and Patrick Martin. She was preceded by an infant daughter, Laurie, who she held in her heart and with who she is now reunited. She also leaves to cherish her memory her beautiful grandchildren, Brianna Barringer; McKenzie Martin and Cody Verbos, and James Michael Martin; and her sister with whom she was inseparable, Nancy Darling (the late Ronald Darling). She was predeceased by her brother and sister-in-law, Norman and Elizabeth "Liz" (Raspante) Fiorillo. She is additionally survived by numerous nieces and nephews, but she shared an extra special relationship with her niece, Daina Fiorillo and her partner Jeff Lawrence and son, Salvatore (Sal); they occupied each other’s company, especially on Friday nights. Also surviving are her many great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and in-laws, Donna and Bill Fullem, Patricia Carroll (the late Ed Carroll), and Mary Lou Martin. Phyllis shared in many friendships throughout her life but she especially remembered her “Wall Street Family,” especially sitting on the porch and checking in on everybody! Her companion and best bud in life was her canine, Otto, who misses her already. Gratitude is extended on behalf of the Martin family to Phyllis’ granddaughter, McKenzie, whom she was deeply cared by with compassion and love that only family could give. A special note of appreciation to the staffs of The Green’s and Fresenius Medical Care in Lincolnton, North Carolina, and the MVHS Dialysis Centers at Faxton and St. Luke’s. They inspired her to engage in her 17 plus years of treatment. The family will honor and commemorate her life privately. Relative and friends are respectfully invited to attend Phyllis’ Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Thursday, July 13, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay Steet, Utica. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of the mass. Memorial contributions in Phyllis’ honor may be made to the American Kidney Fund online at www.kidneyfund.org/give; envelopes will also be available at the service. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Mrs. Philomena M. "Phyllis" (Fiorillo) Martin

January 30, 1943 - July 5, 2023