Marie E. (Sinisgalli) Antonelli

Mrs. Marie Elizabeth (Sinisgalli) Antonelli, age 92, of Utica, joined her loved ones in Heaven on Tuesday February 27, 2018 at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, with her beloved family by her side.

She was born in Utica on March 20, 1925, the daughter of the late Rocco and Elizabeth Mangano Sinisgalli. Marie was raised in Utica and was a graduate of Thomas R. Proctor High School and the Utica School of Commerce. On June 29, 1963, she was united in marriage to Samuel A. Antonelli, a blessed union of 36 years until his passing on July 2, 1999.

Marie went to work ahead of her time, when most women stayed in the home, and was employed for several years as a bookkeeper at Danella Furriers, and also at Rochester Furs supporting her daughters. She was a people person, articulate, and could carry on a conversation with just about anyone. When she engaged with you, she wore a smile and complimented you. Marie was a consummate lady and always put together in style.  She especially loved politics and would debate anyone on any issue at any time. She kept current and was very sharp with world events. She was a lover of history and always wished she had become a teacher.  Marie loved to surround herself with “pretty” things. She took great pride in her spotless home and surrounded herself with things that made her smile.  What seemed like just a knick-knack to others was a treasure to her and made her happy. She loved color and flair and made her home a splendor of cheerfulness with her beloved treasures, flowers, and dolls.  Her home was truly a signature of her colorful spirit. Marie was a talented piano player and often would sing along as she played. Playing the piano was therapeutic for her and, throughout her life, would give her comfort in times of trouble.  All throughout her life, Marie was a resilient woman. Always facing what came to her with grace, dignity, and hope, she was strong in her faith. She had a special adoration towards St. Anne and would often pray to her for intercession in life.  The power of the most Holy Rosary was paramount to her. Most of all, she just loved her family and being around people. She looked forward to outings and “coffee club” with her daughters and beloved friends. She delighted in being blessed to see her family grow and witness receiving great-grandchildren into her life.  Her legacy will live on forever.

Surviving are two loving and devoted daughters and sons-in-law, Elizabeth A. and Joseph F. Antonelli of Marcy, and Rosemary A. and John J. Jones of Utica; six cherished grandchildren and their spouses, Joanne E. Granza, John Granza, Gina Marie Antonelli-Hensel, Anthony Hensel,  John A. Jones, Kimberly Jones, David M. Jones, Cynthia Hudson, Brian Hudson, Maryrose Silecchio, and Angelo Silecchio; also six adored great-grandchild, Joseph A. Granza, Arianna Granza, Térèsa Antonella Hensel, Antonio “Tono” Hensel, Arianna Hudson, and Brian Hudson; and one beloved brother, Carl Sinisgalli.

Marie's family wishes to extend special thanks to the home care aides of Eldercare and US Care for the tender loving care provided to Marie in her home, which she loved to be in and also for befriending her so warmly. Staying in her own surroundings brought Marie much needed calmness during her later years. Special thanks for the compassionate care provided to Marie on Special Care (4C) of St. Elizabeth Medical Center and to all the physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, students, and staff who touched Marie and attended to her needs so delicately.

Visitation will be held on Sunday (today) from 2-5 pm at The Scala & Roefaro Funeral Home, Inc. 1122 Culver Ave. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday at 12:00 Noon in Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Church.  Private interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.