Phyllis M. Tofani

Phyllis M. Tofani, age 79, of Utica, passed away on Wednesday, October 19, 2011 at the Katherine Luther Home. Phyllis was born in East Utica on April 7, 1932, the daughter of the late Enrico “Henry” and Josephine (DiBiase) Tofani. She was raised and educated locally. During her working life, Phyllis was employed at the General Electric Company, the Whitesboro Pharmacy, and lastly, the Bank of America as a teller at their Main Branch. Phyllis was truly a blessing to her family as a daughter and a sibling, and her motherly instincts were tendered as a nurturing and fun loving aunt. For several generations she was an inspiration, a steadfast source of love and advice. She was affectionately known as “A.P.”, short for Aunt Phyllis, because it was an endearing epithet for one so loved. Phyllis loved to cook, especially the savory foods that were her family’s favorites. She also had a knack for creating ceramics, and a bias for Bingo. She was a parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Phyllis is survived by her sisters, Margaret Wolkowicz of FL, and Eleanor Borello of Utica; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Richard and Edith Tofani of GA, Henry Tofani of FL, and Frank and Angela Tofani of Utica; and her many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, great-great-nephews, cousins, and her wonderful friend, Mariam Mudri, who was so helpful to Phyllis. She was predeceased by her sisters, Elizabeth “Betty” Fiaschetti, Antoinette Paciello, Carmella “Cora” Grande, Rose Palmano, and Elvira Ceci; and her brothers, Pat, Joseph, and Americo Tofani. The family wishes to praise the staff of the Katherine Luther Home for the attentive care they rendered to Phyllis during her stay. The family will honor and commemorate Phyllis’ life in a private gathering. Please refrain from floral offerings. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Phyllis’ funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday morning at 10:30 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. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Phyllis M. Tofani

April 7, 1932 - October 19, 2011