Mrs. Zaffa (George) Horton

Mrs. Zaffa (George) Horton, age 87, passed away on Wednesday, April 9, 2014 at Mohawk Valley Health Systems at St. Luke’s Hospital with her loving family by her side. Born in Lebanon on February 22, 1927, Zaffa was the daughter of the late Edward and Negibe “Jeanette” (George) George. After her family relocated to the U.S. and settled in Utica when she was a young child, she was then raised here and educated in local schools. Zaffa was a long time employee of the Mohawk Knitting Mill where she held a position right up until the time of the Mill’s closing. She then worked as an assembler at the Mele Manufacturing Co. Also, for many years she assisted her mother at the “Let’s Eat” Restaurant located on the corner of Third Ave. and Bleecker St. A woman with boundless love in her heart, Zaffa was unsurpassed in the generosity and concern she bestowed upon her loved ones. Blessed with an excellent memory, she was never happier than when she was reminiscing about memorable occasions, important events, and nostalgic memories from the past. She loved to crochet and created many items, both beautiful and useful, which she often gave away to family and friends. She was proud of her Lebanese heritage, and enjoyed cooking authentic Lebanese dishes and specialties. She was a communicant of St. Louis Gonzaga Church. Zaffa is survived by her son, Ronald Horton, Sr. of NC; her grandchildren, Ronald Horton, Jr., Sabrina, and Ashley; and her great-grandchildren, Messiah, Ronald III, Cerina, Corvin, and Jayden. Her survivors also include her sisters; Marion Desiato and Rose Nelson, both of Utica; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and in-law, Catherine Pentzholt. She was predeceased by her brothers and sister-in-law, Albert “Allie” George, John George, and Anthony and Lucille George; and her brothers-in-law, Ronald F. Nelson, Sr., and Angelo Desiato. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 2-4 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The Prayer of Incense will be offered on Sunday afternoon at 3:30. Zaffa’s funeral will commence on Monday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at St. Louis Gonzaga Church, where the Divine Liturgy of the Faithful Departed will be celebrated by Chorbishop John D. Faris. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mrs. Zaffa (George) Horton

February 22, 1927 - April 9, 2014