Mary Jo Malachino

Mary Jo Malachino, age 64, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, August 13, 2012 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with her loving family at her side. Mary Jo was born in Utica on February 10, 1948, the daughter of the late Joseph and Nancy (Palladino) Malachino. She attended local schools and continued her education at M.V.C.C. earning an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Development. Currently, Mary Jo held the position of Customer Service Representative with the Mohawk Valley Home Comfort Services. She had fond memories of her employment with Pizza Pad where she formed many lasting friendships. Mary Jo was gracious with all heart, her welcoming ways, and wonderful sense of humor. Anyone who visited was put at ease and made to feel like family with her love, and many who knew her characteristically called her “Mama Jo”. She mastered many culinary capabilities, especially baking. Above all, she felt that her greatest accomplishments in life were raising her children while watching over and actively being a part of her grandchildren’s lives. Being born into a musical family, she was blessed with a beautiful voice, a gift she shared with her loved ones. She had a mellow personality with a natural ability to relate to and enjoy any social group. Mary Jo was crafty, creative, an eager reader, and a compassionate woman who loved and cared for all God’s creatures, great and small. Mary Jo is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Dawn M. and Robert F. Acquaviva; and her son Damion M. Malachino and Jennifer L. Barr, all of Utica; her grandchildren and the lights of her life, Alexander, Zavior, Seann, and Jenna. She also leaves her brothers and sisters-in-law, Anthony and Dianne Malachino of LA, and David and Penny Malachino of MA; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles; sister-in-law, Barbara Malachino of MI, George P. George with whom she shared more than 30 years of companionship. She was predeceased by her brother, Joseph Malachino. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Immediately upon the conclusion of visitation, Mary Jo’s family will honor her life with a Prayer Service led by Pastor Kevin Hodkinson. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mary Jo Malachino

February 10, 1948 - August 13, 2012