Concetta Jude "Connie" Citriniti

E. UTICA – On Saturday, January 17, 2026, I, Concetta Jude "Connie" Citriniti, age 64, separated from my earth-bound spirit and began forever with my Savior and King.

Born in Utica on December 21, 1961, I was the daughter of the late Fred Joseph and Frances (Cimino) Citriniti. I grew up in a household where three generations lived under one roof, and it was the most enriching experience I could have ever imagined. I was born after fifteen years of my parents' marriage, and my family considered my birth a miracle. Every day thereafter felt like a miracle as well.

I completed my primary education at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel School and my secondary education at T.R. Proctor High School. I then attended Mohawk Valley Community College, where I earned an associate's degree, followed by the State University of New York (SUNY) at Utica/Rome, where I obtained a bachelor's degree. I subsequently pursued graduate studies at The College of Saint Rose, earning a master's degree in education.

At one time I was wed to Angelo C. Giacovelli.

I dedicated my entire adult career to the Utica City School District, teaching learning disabled children at Kemble Elementary School, John F. Kennedy Middle School, and T.R. Proctor High School. I always knew I would be a teacher from the time I was 4 years old. During my first month teaching at Kemble, two veteran educators that had been observing me told me that teachers were not "MADE," they were "BORN" that way; this has stayed with me for almost 40 years. It was what God had planned for me. The happiest day of my life was the first time I walked up the steps of my alma mater, T.R. Proctor High School, to begin my professional teaching career at the high school level. I was so overwhelmed with joy and gratitude that I cried.

Over the years, I was honored to hold several teaching related positions, including John F. Kennedy Service Club Advisor and Social Committee Director. I also served as a member of the T.R. Proctor Leadership Team, a trained mentor, Inclusion Team Member and Coordinator, Utica Teachers Association Representative, and was recognized as Teacher of the Month.

When sickness made it impossible for me to continue as an educator, God afforded me a new opportunity to affect change. He showed me that my writing/reflections could now be shared and help others in a different way. Sharing my thoughts and faith has been a very spiritual and satisfying outlet for me.

Throughout my life, I have enjoyed many wonderful travel experiences, especially sitting by the ocean and taking in glorious sunsets. I also enjoyed writing poetry in my leisure time and sponsoring my very own "Connie's Coffee Club!"

I grew closer to Jesus every day – every hour – every minute of my life. I find great comfort (even now in death) knowing He carries me and loves me unconditionally. I encourage everyone to develop a personal relationship with Him. It is and will be the greatest relationship of your life! Also, because I was born so far into my parent's marriage, I was named after Saint Jude (the Saint of the Impossible) in thanksgiving for my long-awaited conception. Both my mother and I were very devoted to St. Jude for our entire lives. My home parish was St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish and remained so for 3 generations.

To quote Tim McGraw... "Someday I hope you get the chance to live like you were dying." Take all the life out of living that you can.

I leave behind many supportive cousins, with special recognition to Rosemary Cimino, Kelly Mercurio-Bianco, and Vinnie Rocci and Lisa M. Cimino; my lifelong friends, Renee, Frosella ,and Julie V.; my godchildren, Janae Sylvester, and Robert DeFrank; my father-in-law, Angelo J. Giacovelli (the late Georgianna Kennedy Giacovelli); and the wonderful friends I have amassed during my time on Earth, far too numerous to mention. A special nod goes out to my lifelong supportive Mount Carmel classmates; the amazing girls in the "Coffee Club," who were my rock; my angels, Angela Meola, Emina, Julie (Bucciero) Zegarelli, Carmelita (Cappelino) Matyi, and Bob Hobaica for their care and compassion; and every soul who has touched my life along the way. There were so many.

I will be reunited in heaven with my beloved parents, Fred and Frances Citriniti; my maternal uncle, Ralph Cimino, Jr.; maternal grandparents, Ralph and Congetta (Sacco) Cimino; paternal grandparents, Frank and Victoria (Maio) Citriniti; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and special friends.

Much appreciation is extended to the entire staff of Wynn Hospital, especially of the Emergency Department, fifth, and eighth floors, as well as the staff of the Utica Rehabilitation and Nursing Facility for their professionalism. They rendered personal attention and care to Connie that was much needed and for which she was so appreciative… and she only reported 1 person!

Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 25, 2026, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in my honor may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital online at www.stjude.org/donate or the Y.W.C.A.'s Hall House for Domestic Abuse online at www.ywcamv.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend my Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St. My earthly vessel will be laid to rest alongside my beloved parents in St. Agnes Cemetery.

Her life story was composed by Connie with love, strength, and dignity prior to her passing.