Mrs. Sandra J. "Sandy" (Florenz) Zito

MARCY/NAPLES, FL - Mrs. Sandra J. “Sandy” (Florenz) Zito, age 78, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, October 24, 2021, in the comfort and dignity of her home, and with those she dearly loved in her heart. Sandy was born in Utica on April 25, 1943 to her beloved parents, the late Fred and Angela (Pinto) Florenz. She was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1961 before attending the Utica School of Commerce. Her studies there prepared Sandy for an established career as an Administrative Assistant in several departments for Teamsters Local Union # 182 – a National Labor Relations Board. While engaged in her work, Sandy formed various great friendships. She eventually retired in 2003. At one time Sandy had been married to Dean Kayne, and to that relationship came the blessing of their daughter, Christine; Dean’s untimely passing occurred in 1974. Sandy’s life was forever changed when she met Joseph A. Zito. The pair were fortunate to marry in 1978, and the lifelong bond began – one of mutual unconditional love and dedication, where they were completely engaged in each other. Sandy was an understanding wife, and was gracious to her husband’s job related travels. Joe was the first to acknowledge that he could not have accomplished what he had without all of Sandy’s hard work and self-gift, and he valued that she always greeted him with love. He would often call Sandy by her nickname “Honeybunch,” especially in an endearing moment. As Sandy progressed through her final journey, Joseph cared tenderly for and tended to all of her health needs. A woman of virtue, Sandy was known for a patience that permeated all areas of her life, and it was a quality she endeavored to teach through her example. She was also exceptionally generous in varied ways, including her ample gift-giving, boosting of spirits, and sharing of wisdom. Sandy made herself available to her daughter and family whenever she could, and was renowned for her hospitality. Additionally, Sandy possessed a deep love of children – especially her precious grandchildren, loving them in a most inclusive way. Sandy’s love left no voids, and she was understood to be the “Neighborhood Nonnie”, which was a name affectionately bestowed on her for her motherly love towards all. Her love for those she encountered will truly cement her in the hearts of many forever, and her benevolent acts will never be forgotten. Sandy was beautiful, both on the exterior and for her interior. She exuded charm and could entertain and host parties so that her endeavors appeared effortless. Sandy was particularly lauded for her New Year’s Eve parties! Whenever she felt her emotions, her countenance would take on a unique expression. As a couple, Sandy and Joe enjoyed travelling, particularly to Florida. The pair also partook in countless joy-filled Saturday night dinner gatherings, which were amusing get-togethers. Sandy especially enjoyed the magical holiday times with all the family, and relished the magical trips they took several times to Disney World, which was a wonderful experience. As the years progressed, their friendships evolved, and Sandy would befriend groups of people whom she would embrace and then would make an extended family. The pair was blessed with their beautiful homes, the last of which was in Naples. Joe and Sandy fell in love with the gorgeous and bright city, and called it home. Naples offered a new beginning and perpetual pleasure. There, she concluded her life, and her family is consoled that she passed in a place of such beauty, with her loving husband who took such good care of her by her side. Of all Sandy’s accomplishments, one of her greatest legacies is that of her beloved relationships with her daughter and grandchildren. Sandy was inspired by the Lord, and He lived in her heart. She renewed and appreciated her Catholic creed and engaged so humbly her time in prayer and attending Mass at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/ Blessed Sacrament Parish. Sandy is survived by her devoted husband, Joe; and her adored daughter and son-in-law, Christine and James Gray. Her heart was devoted to her grandchildren and their loves, Steven Gray and Nina Nguyen, Taylor Gray and Robert Guernsey. She loved Joe’s children and grandchildren as her own; Noreen and Ronald Beasock, Nicole and Chris Getz, Ronnie, Joey, Carly Beasock; and Danielle, and Anthony Getz. Sandy will be fondly remembered by her sister, Darlene “Pudgie” Ameduri; and her brothers, Vincent, and Fred Florenz; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and her first and second cousins with whom she shared great closeness. Sandy also shared life with her in-laws, D. Richard and Barbara Zito, David R. Zito, and Linda and Robert Verdon. She was blessed with treasured and wonderful friendships and their family in Florida; as well as her best friend, Connie George, who preceded her and whom Sandy never forgot and always carried in her heart. Sandy was predeceased by her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Rocco and Antoinette (Bernardi) Zito. Joe and the family wish to extend their gratitude to their Florida family at Quincy Square, with special thanks given to Jim and Marcia Murray for being there for Joe during his most difficult moments. Thanks is further extended to family friend Anthony Fragapane for his comforting presence and graciousness. Visitation will commence on Tuesday, November 2, 2021 from 4:00 to 7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Memorial contributions in Sandy’s honor may be made to Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish online at https://www.mountcarmelblessedsacrament.com; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Sandy’s Mass of Christian Burial which will be held on Wednesday morning, November 3, 2021 at 11:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Mrs. Sandra J. "Sandy" (Florenz) Zito

April 25, 1943 - October 24, 2021