Julia A. "Judy" (DeGrace) Taverne

Mrs. Julia A. “Judy” (DeGrace) Taverne, age 68, a lifelong resident of East Utica, passed away on Friday, March 31, 2006 in the comfort of her home with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on April 29, 1937, Judy was the daughter of the late Stephen Sr. and Carmella (Forgione) DeGrace. Raised and educated locally, she was a graduate of Utica Catholic Academy. On October 19, 1957 she married John A. Taverne. The couple shared in a unique relationship, one that was founded upon their sharing the common bonds of family life, as well as the blessings of their grandchildren. Mr. Taverne passed away on March 14, 2000. A 30-year employee of the Metropolitan Insurance Co., Mrs. Taverne began as a switchboard operator, then accepting a management position in the C.O.B. Department. She retired shortly after the passing of her husband. Judy’s foremost priority was her family. During her children’s school years, her commitment as a parent was evidenced by her active involvement in the PTA, as well as by her service as a den leader for the Girl Scouts. She considered it one of her greatest achievements that she raised her children to be strong and independent individuals. Judy’s strong and stoic character was balanced with her sweet personality. She may best be remembered for her ability to “dismiss a concern or a person at will.” As a woman who possessed a deeply spiritual nature, she was a communicant of St. Agnes Church where she served as a Eucharistic Minister. In addition, Judy was an active member of the Sons of Italy, Utica Lodge #2054, where she served several terms as an officer. Because the bonds of friendship were both sacred and meaningful to Judy, she made it a lifetime practice to gather once a month with her high school sorority sisters. A favorite pastime of Judy’s was reading. Mrs. Taverne is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Dwain Klatt of Remsen; and a son and daughter-in-law, John A. Jr. and Barbara Taverne of Westmoreland. A nurturing grandmother, Judy shared inseperable close relationships with her beloved grandchildren, Ryan Klatt, Charlotte Klatt, Siobhan Taverne, and Gabrielle Taverne. In addition, her survivors include a cherished sister and her husband, Rosemary and Charles Trascritti of Utica; 2 brothers and sisters-in-law, Jack and Sherry DeGrace of FL, and Stephen Jr. and Kelly DeGrace of Utica; a number of nephews and nieces, especially acknowledging Roxanne and Cindy; her great-nephews, great-nieces, and cousins; and several in-laws, including Donald and Ginger Taverne of New Hartford. She also leaves her dear friends and neighbors, Felicia and Michael Panuccio. Judy’s final wishes regarding the quality of her life and of her medical care were fulfilled only through the steadfast persistence of her children and the constant support and guidance of Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. Therefore, the family extends its deepest appreciation to all of the members of her health care team who were truly “the greatest”: we offer our sincere thanks to Dr. Thomas Ryan and to Dr. Nicoletta Tallindini, as well as our heartfelt gratitude to her dedicated caregivers, Alissa, Navaz, Irene, and Stephanie. All of their “healing touch” assisted and comforted not only Judy but also her family. Visitation will be held today (Sunday) from 3-6 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. In keeping with the family’s wishes, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Judy’s honor to the Abraham House to assist others in a time of need; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Mrs. Taverne’s funeral will commence on Monday morning at 8:30 from the funeral home and at 9:30 at St. Agnes Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Julia A. "Judy" (DeGrace) Taverne

April 29, 1937 - March 30, 2006