Mrs. Linda A. (Caputo) DeGrace

CAPE CORAL, FL/UTICA - Mrs. Linda A. (Caputo) DeGrace, age 67, went home to the Lord and was reunited with her beloved husband Nicky when she passed away on Tuesday, June 2, 2020 with her loving daughters by her side. Born in Utica on October 8, 1952, Linda was the daughter of the late Pasquale “Patsy” and Lucy (Scilinguo) Caputo. She was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1970. On March 4, 1984 she married Dominick P. “Nicky” DeGrace. Not only did they share a memorable marriage, but they also made a loving, harmonious home for her three daughters. Nicky was a wonderful husband to Linda and a great step-dad and mentor to the girls during their years together. He passed away on May 27, 1998. Linda worked as a Medical Records Clerk at Slocum-Dickson and later at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center as a Telephone Operator whose voice and soothing attitude brought comfort to patients. For 20 years, she also worked at the former Graziano/Regal Restaurant as a well-known waitress who was highly regarded for her hospitality. She then was employed as a cashier at Walgreens in New Hartford, transferring to a Walgreens in Fort Myers, Florida when she relocated there. A woman of character, Linda was dignified and self-reliant. She was an inspiring mom to her children, and she was wise enough to be their best friend and confidant. They were bound by an unbreakable bond of love and fun, …never a dull moment! Being a mother and Nana was her greatest gift, and each day revolved around their activities and needs. She would do absolutely anything to accommodate them, and in turn, they admired, loved, and adored her so much. Linda’s smile was warm, welcoming, unique, and memorable. Her exuberance was irresistible, a trait that led to friendships that lasted a lifetime. She and Nicky traveled to Atlantic City and Las Vegas, not only for the excitement, but also for the experience and the restaurants. She was also a savvy bargain shopper. Linda was a slot-machine queen and prior to relocating to Florida, she made many donations to Turning Stone, along with Helen, her friend and partner in their endeavor to win. She was a Dunkin Donut’s Coffee fanatic,… extra cream and two Equals please! Linda was a communicant of the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. She encouraged her family to know the Lord and trust in Him, and in her final days, she found peace, after her difficult struggle. Her children and family know that life will never be the same without her, but she leaves them countless memories of inspiration, advice, and wisdom. She made everything seem so easy! She had an enthusiasm for life, and she lived it well. She honored the holidays and special days in the lives of each of her girls and grandchildren, and she continued that tradition up until her very last day. Linda is survived by her pearls and devoted daughters, Rhonda Fabbio, Shelly Fabbio-Kane and her husband Dan Kane, and Toni Alana (DeGrace) Mueller and her husband Keith Mueller; her grandchildren, who she adored and with whom she shared individual relationships, Samantha Fabbio and Michael Kasprzyk, Amanda Alfred, Brandon Kane, Jordan Kane; Bella Mueller, and Amber Rock. She also leaves her siblings, Rose Almond, Joseph R. Caputo and James Hanosh, and Lucy and Jack Rumbutis; and her nieces, nephews, great-nieces great-nephews, cousins, and her best friend, Vita Graniero who was an “aunt” to the girls and remained close to her heart to the very end. She was predeceased by her step-siblings, Margaret and John R. Costanza, and Pasquale A. Caputo; and niece, Natalie Almond. The family is grateful to Dr. Robert Esper, her trusted physician Oncologist, for his compassion and concern. Due to current health concerns and in keeping with federal and state regulations, the family will honor Linda’s life privately and funeral services will be held with immediate family only. Please take a moment to connect with Linda’s family through the “Memories” section of her obituary on our website. Our prayers continue to go out to all as a sign of our community support.

Mrs. Linda A. (Caputo) DeGrace

October 8, 1952 - June 2, 2020