Mrs. Theresa J. (Martelli) Sportelli

UTICA – Mrs. Theresa J. (Martelli) Sportelli, age 92, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Born in Utica on November 8, 1932, Theresa was the daughter of the late Ralph A. and Rose J. (Brigano) Martelli. She attended local schools. On September 4, 1950, she joined in matrimony with Frank A. Sportelli. The couple shared a beautiful and devoted union of over 59 years prior to Frank’s passing on April 11, 2010. At one time, Theresa was involved with the family business – Sportelli Supermarket, which was located on South St. The main focus of Theresa’s existence was her family. She always put others before herself, had a fastidious demeanor, and everything she engaged in was always done meticulously. She never did anything halfway, always putting her best foot forward and doing things right the first time. In her free time, Theresa nurtured many hobbies, particularly caring for her marvelous flower gardens. She was also renowned as a phenomenal cook – her Italian pepper and Christmas cookies were particularly famous, and she always made a delicious sausage roll! She was a whiz with a needle and sewing machine, producing many beautiful needlework projects. She also enjoyed attending her bible classes and relished the simple joy of sitting on her front porch. Theresa was an avid and competitive league bowler and participated in league bowling for many years. One of her catch phrases that will be remembered by all was, “Don’t be fresh!” A devout Catholic, Theresa was a proud member of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where she was heavily involved in the parish’s activities, including acting as a eucharistic minister. As her faith taught her, she always put others before herself, including the many close relationships she formed at church. These dear souls also became a part of her “family.” Theresa is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Vito J. and Donna G. Sportelli. She cherished the memory of her son, Ralph A. Sportelli, who passed away on May 27, 1992. She will also be missed by her grandson and his wife Patrick F. and Michelle Sportelli; great-grandchildren, Sophia Sportelli, and Joseph Sportelli; sister, Angela Paolozzi (the late Joseph A. Paolozzi, Jr.); and brother and sister-in-law, Dominick F. and Kathleen Martelli. She fondly remembered her sister and brother-in-law who preceded her, Ellena M. and Norman H. Snogles, Jr. Her loss is additionally felt by many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and many special friends, especially Rose Marie Chiffy, Terri Panuccio, Rose Bucciero, and Sam and Ellie. She was additionally predeceased by her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Vito J. “Vic” and Palma Rose (Convertino) Sportelli; brother-in-law, Angelo D. Sportelli; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Vita and Joseph D. Brigano. The Sportelli family would like to extend their gratitude to Theresa’s personal physician Dr. Scott Brehaut and Danielle Patrei from his office for their care and compassion. Thanks are also due to Theresa’s caregivers and home care aides Suzana, and Mimi, for their loving care. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Theresa’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 684 Jay St. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Mrs. Theresa J. (Martelli) Sportelli

November 8, 1932 - March 1, 2025