Rose A. (Longo) Coniglio

UTICA - Rose A. (Longo) Coniglio, age 98, went to her Lord and her loved ones who awaited her, on Wednesday, May 11, 2022, with those she loved most in her heart. Born in Missanello, Province of Potenza, Italy on January 6, 1924, Rose was the daughter of the late Joseph and Anna (Puglio) Longo. She came to the United States as an infant and her family settled in Utica where she was raised and educated, proudly graduating from T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1943. In 1980, Rose met her companion, Vincent J. “Vinny” LoRusso, Sr. through a personal introduction, and they began a whirlwind relationship. A perfect match, they adored each other as they intertwined their hearts and passions. They shared over 25 years of caring for one another prior to Vin’s passing in 2007. Rose’s love for her Vin never waned, and now they are reunited for eternity. Rose was employed by the General Electric Company, French Road location where she held the position of Group Leader, retiring in 1985 after dedicating 30 years of service to the company. Concurrently, she was caring for her mom, and in retirement, Rose was able to be by her side and provide for all her mom’s needs. Rose was the “brick-and-mortar” mainstay for her family. She was independent, self-reliant, organized, and resilient, attributes she attained years before her time. She was an innate caregiver, and her kindness was genuine and unparalleled in providing physical or personal care. She was outgoing and forever helping others. When she saw a need or cause, she offered her assistance without hesitation or expectation of accolades or recognition. Both joys and struggles that came into her life were met by her good judgement and a petition for God’s help. Meticulous and magnanimous by nature, Rose leaves a legacy of sensitivity, smiles, and sincerity to so many who hold her memory dear to their heart. Endowed with incomparable charm and class, Rose was respectful of people’s needs and made many friends along the way. Her warm personality and organizational skills were called upon again when she was asked to be a ticket seller and promotional organizer behind any successful event, a task she met with grace. She accomplished so much during her life that spanned nearly a century! It is hard to see Rose’s energies now at rest, but for those who knew and loved her, she will remain a “Fire Ball” forever in a new chapter of a great life. If Rose had not been who she was, it would not have been possible for her late Vin’s family to have loved her, cared for her, and include her in their family gatherings. She was blessed to have a congenial relationship with Vin’s three sons and his former wife in her later years. They saw the goodness and benevolence in her heart and could not help but to include her in their lives and watch over her well-being. Blessed to have found one another, Rose and Vin had so much in common. They loved dining and dancing, favoring Bella Cucina and Michael T’s. They also supported local community-based organizations including the former Sons of Italy, and the American Legion Post #229, as well as her being a member of the Ladies Auxiliary. She was a fervent Yankees fan, enthusiastic about their wins, the players, the stats, and the rosters; even to her last days, the start of the season was on her TV. A woman of faith, Rose was a dedicated church goer. She had spirituality in her heart, and in her earlier years was active in her parish communities and was a longtime member of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. She was a member of the St. Rosalia Society and the Saints Cosmas and Damian Society. Rose was a very endearing soul, and her patience made her a wonderful caregiver, …she was truly a gift. Upon reflection of her life, there is such appreciation for what a special person she truly was. She had great confidence in herself, but was so humble, gentle, and virtuous. Rose was held very special in the hearts of her beloved Vin’s sons and their loves, John D. LoRusso and Diane Leavitt, Vincent J. Jr. and Bonnie LoRusso, Anthony J. LoRusso and Linda Timian, and their families; Vincent M. and Nicole LoRusso and their children Camryn, Quintin, and Christopher J. and Erica LoRusso and their daughter, Regina. She was preceded by her brothers, John Longo, and Vincent Longo who passed as a young adult. She also leaves her cousins, especially Angeline Cristelli; and a multitude of faithful friends who graced her life. The family extends their appreciation to Dr. Kevin McCormick who showed Rose such kindness; the staff of the Masonic Care Community who were outstanding in sharing a community of love and respect with Rose; the personnel of the Amherst Household who kept her journey special because they appreciated her valuable life and great inspiration; as well as Rose’s special friends, Carol and Peter Scholl who corresponded with Rose with love and never forgot her. Visitation will be held Monday, May 16, 2022 from 4:00-6:00 pm at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The Ladies Auxiliary of the American Legion Post #229 will assemble for Ritualistic Services at 5:30. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Rose’s Mass of Christian Burial which will commence on Tuesday, May 17, 2022 at 11:00 am at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Memorial contributions in Rose’s honor may be directed to the American Legion Utica Post #229 Ladies Auxiliary, 409 Herkimer Road Utica, NY 13502. Envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Interment will follow graveside at Calvary Cemetery. "When the sun sets on a beautiful life… the colors can remain far after. Keep them in your stories, say their name, emulate their kindness & cherish their legacy."

Rose A. (Longo) Coniglio

January 6, 1924 - May 11, 2022