Paula (D'Angelo) Blair

Paula D'Angelo Blair, 88, of Utica and Suffolk, Va., left us on February 15, 2023. She was the iconic, beloved mother of Nancy, Neil, and Becky Blair, grandmother of Francesca and Gillian Krivitsky and a cherished friend, confidant and champion to so many.

Paula's resume was short, but her impact and legacy are written large on the lives she touched. She grew up in Utica and carried her childhood friends close her whole life long. She loved strong women, and believed unwaveringly in the goodness of every young person who came into her life. You could do no wrong in Paula's eyes. She loved well, and generously.

Paula graduated from Thomas R. Proctor High School and Oneonta State Teachers College. Her family in the Utica area and the many, many friends she made in high school remained close to her heart every single day.

In addition to her children, Nancy Blair (Sarah Rosen), Neil Blair (Connie Blair) and Becky Blair (Ben Shapiro) and grandchildren, Paula is survived by her sister, Mary Lou Ricci of Whitesboro; niece, Judith Ricci Struzzi (Peter Struzzi); and nephew, Nicky Ricci (Nancy Ricci). She was predeceased by her husband, Cornelius Osborne Southern Blair Sr.; and parents, Nancy and Frank D'Angelo.

A Mass of the Resurrection was celebrated On February 18, 2023, at St. Mary of the Presentation Catholic Church in Suffolk, Va. by Rev. Fr. Rogelio "Ongen" Largoza.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Entombment Ceremony on Wednesday at 1:30 pm at Calvary Cemetery (Upper Mausoleum), 2407 Oneida St, Utica, NY 13501.

In Paula’s memory, please consider donations to St. Jude's Children's Hospital; www.stjude.org or envelopes will be available at the service.