Mrs. Theresa A. (Cuccaro) Smith

UTICA - Mrs. Theresa A. (Cuccaro) Smith passed away at the age of 91 on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, and is now in the peace and presence of the Lord. When she passed, she was surrounded by her family and in the hearts of those who were most treasured. Theresa was born in Utica on January 29, 1932, to the late Pasquale and Rose (Pepe) Cuccaro. She was an attendee of T. R. Proctor High School. On June 28, 1952, she wed Ronald L. Smith. Their commitment and love were in harmony. They raised their children with a gentleness and hospitality that filled their hearts. Theresa and Ron shared over 64 loving years prior to his passing on March 1, 2017. Theresa missed him every single day and is now reunited with him in heaven. Theresa once held employment with Neisner’s Department Store downtown and was the head of the jewelry department. She later worked at the General Electric Company as an assembler, and finally at Chicago Market, Oneida St. location, as the head cashier. At each of the positions she held, Theresa was known for her honesty, her pleasant nature, and classic sense of style. Most importantly, she maintained a household, prepared delicious meals, and welcomed a full home. As a mother, Theresa taught her children how to love. She was a perfect role model, a great confidante, and a best friend. It was through her modest heart that she held her family together. She was a well-spirited woman who especially enjoyed sharing her life with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She had a memorable smile that was seen often and known to many. She selflessly dedicated her life and love to her family. Theresa was a remarkable cook and baker. Each season she had her specialties, and Ron would deliver the goods! If you were lucky enough to have one of her recipes, you were blessed. Her hospitality and entertaining abilities were unmatched. Theresa was a lifelong Catholic and her faith ran deep. The recitation of the Rosary was a way of life and such a comfort, and attending Mass was sacred to her. Theresa attended St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Theresa is survived by her children and their loves, Debra A. Sardino (her late husband Anthony A. Sardino), Richard R. and Judianne (Balzano) Smith, and Sharon M. and Frank M. “Buddy” Indolfi; her grandchildren, Nicholas and Katherine Sardino, Kaylah and Mark Richardson; Justin and Gretchen Smith, Matthew and Elizabeth Smith, Adrienne Smith and Kyle Levatino; Alexandra and Thomas Giglio, and Jenna Indolfi; and her great-grandchildren, Ella Sardino, and Rosalie Sardino, Colt and Madison Richardson; Hudson Smith; Enzo Smith; and Thomas and Gia Giglio. She is additionally survived by her sister, Carole Aulbach; and her brothers and sisters-in-law, Carl and Kathleen Cuccaro, and Ronald and Sheila Cuccaro. Theresa cherished the memory of her sister, Marie Rocci, who preceded her in 2008, leaving behind her brother-in-law, Mario Rocci, Sr. Theresa also leaves many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Leo and Ann (Piperata) Smith. Theresa’s family would like to extend a special thank you to her physician, Dr. Mathew Ulahannan, as well as the Fifth Floor MVHS at St. Luke’s Campus staff and ancillary caregivers. Thanks also to palliative care services, especially Lori Florentino, FNP, and Dr. Tiffany Gonzales, who provided outstanding emotional support that allowed Theresa’s family to embrace this phase of her life. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Theresa’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay Street. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of the Mass. Memorial contributions in Theresa’s honor may be considered to the Alzheimer’s Association online at www.alz.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the service. Interment will follow in St. Agnes Cemetery, where Theresa will be laid to rest beside her husband.

Mrs. Theresa A. (Cuccaro) Smith

January 29, 1932 - April 12, 2023