Mrs. Mary Louise "Mary Lou" (Centolella) Battaglia

UTICA – Mrs. Mary Louise “Mary Lou” (Centolella) Battaglia, age 78, passed away on Sunday, May 26, 2024, with her husband and sons by her side. Born in Utica on June 5, 1945, Mary Louise was the daughter of the late Victor A. and Louise E. (Casatelli) Centolella. She attended Albany Street Elementary School and was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1963. She then furthered her education at Utica School of Commerce. It was a magical moment when Mary Lou was introduced to Anthony V. Battaglia, and their wedding followed on May 11, 1968. Together they shared over 56 years of marriage. Mar was Anthony’s rock that kept him grounded. Mary Lou began her career at MVCC as a Tab Machine Operator. Once she had her children, she devoted her life full time to raising them and being a tender mother. Her home was a warm place to gather and was a sincere environment for all. She would be delighted to be remembered for her benevolent ways. Extremely loyal and sensitive, Mary Lou possessed an open ear and heart. Her acts of kindness were numerous and admirable. Being involved in her children’s lives was paramount to her. She stood behind her kids and welcomed her grandchildren with such grace; her face always lit up when she saw them. Nanna was her chosen name and her two grandchildren have so many wonderful memories of her doting on them. She loved them both equally, but she finally got her little girl and became spirited by their mutual adoration and shared experiences; they truly blessed her life. Mary Lou was an excellent cook and entertainer; from intimate family dinners to parties with many guests, there was always plentiful food and laughter. One regret she always had was that she could never master her mother’s pustie recipe. Mary Lou was welcoming, hospitable, and loving; what better traits could one ask for? Family vacations to Cape Cod began in the early years. Anthony and Mary Lou continued their travels to the Cape in later years, especially during the fall, always returning to the same motel in South Yarmouth with a room facing the ocean. Being together as a family was the most special time for her. Mary Lou never found a craft in which she would not engage. She always seemed to find a hobby that stimulated her. A sentimental soul, she was mindful of precious memories and took the time to share the stories behind them. Mary Lou possessed an abiding and deep faith in her Lord. She always wore her St. Anthony medal as he was her favorite saint. She was a lifetime member of St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church. Mary Lou is survived by her devoted husband, Anthony; cherished sons and daughter-in-law, Anthony V. Battaglia, and Christopher R. and Jennifer Battaglia; and adored grandchildren, Olivia Battaglia, and Jacob Battaglia. She also leaves to cherish her memory her brother-in-law, Joseph M. Battaglia; nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews; and cousins who she was especially close to including Judi Russo and her family, Grace and Eli Zogby, Susan (Casatelli) Warwick and her husband Bob, Gary Casatelli, Raymond Casatelli, as well as all their children. She will also be remembered by Joan and the late Frank Giovannone, who were not only long-time friends but remarkable neighbors who shared many wonderful times together. Mary Lou was predeceased by her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Anthony and Ella (Rainone) Battaglia; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Stephen and Linda Battaglia; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. The Battaglia family wishes to extend their gratitude to Dr. Atul Butala and his staff who journeyed together with Mary Lou throughout her illness; Wynn Hospital’s doctors, nurses and staff, especially of the 3 West ICU, who gave her peace and caring, compassionate care; and the staff of the MVHS Regional Cancer Center who were always attentive and welcoming. The family will honor and commemorate her life privately. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Mary Louise’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church, 422 Tilden Ave. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of Mass. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in Mary Lou’s honor may be made to the Mohawk Valley Health System Cancer Center Patient Assistance Fund online at https://www.mvhealthsystem.org/foundation/ways-to-give/general-giving-form/ or by mail to Mohawk Valley Health System Foundation, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica, NY 13502; envelopes will also be available at the service. Entombment will take place in Calvary Mausoleum at the convenience of the family.

Mrs. Mary Louise "Mary Lou" (Centolella) Battaglia

June 5, 1945 - May 26, 2024