Marie C. (LaBella) Cerullo

Mrs. Marie C. (LaBella) Cerullo, age 79, of Utica, passed away on Friday, January 4, 2008 in the comfort of her home with her loving daughters and "Harley" by her side. Born in New Jersey on June 28, 1928, Marie was the daughter of the late Rocco, Sr. and Elvira (Camillo) LaBella. She was raised and educated locally and was a graduate of T. R. Proctor High School. On October 2, 1948 she was joined in marriage with Frank A. “Whitey” Cerullo, Jr. with whom she shared 47 years as a devoted wife until his passing on May 19, 1996. For over 20 years Marie held the valued position of office secretary for the Utica-Oswego Motor Express Company. As a devoted mother and matriarch, her daughters blessed her life with love, respect, and friendship. A gentle grace and spirit guided her life and illuminated her as a selfless, generous, and kind person. She had a genuine interest in the lives and happenings of those she loved. She was a pillar of strength and a cultured woman with a unique sense of humor. An avid reader, she also enjoyed writing, especially poetry, and was very computer savvy. She was also an outstanding baker who enjoyed sharing her culinary delights. During her spare time she took pleasure in participating in games of chance and she especially loved to socialize. She was a member of the East Side Senior Center where she made many new and lasting friendships. She played cards weekly with her “dear friends” who she cherished. Marie had a successful and precious life filled with people who loved and admired her. She was a communicant of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Marie is survived by her devoted daughters, Joyce and Janice who will honor their mother's memory until they meet again. Also surviving is her sister, Lucy Sageer of Utica; her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and sister-in-law, Ann C. LaBella of Utica. Marie welcomed and cherished the friendships of Jane and Bernie, Denise, Candace, Suanne, Sylvia, Michelle, Liz, and Irene. She was predeceased by her infant brother, Rocco LaBella; her brother, Rocco C. LaBella, Jr.; and her brother-in-law, John A. Sageer. The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Dr. James O’Malley, and the outstanding staff of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. for their professionalism and commitment which was a complement to the loving care that her daughters shared with their mother. Visitation will be held Monday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St. corner of Hammond Ave. Marie's funeral service will commence on Tuesday morning at 8:30 from the funeral home and at 9:30 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. “The past is filled with memories most of which we’ll treasure. The future holds a ray of hope of a happening of pleasure. The present isn’t clear to me, just a fleeting moment in space For only time has made of the past as the future takes its place”. - Written by our beloved mother.

Marie C. (LaBella) Cerullo

June 28, 1928 - January 4, 2008