Grace R. Zappala

Grace R. Zappala, 98 passed peacefully at her home as was her wish June 3 2022,. She was born in Brooklyn, NY on January 15,1924, daughter of Giuseppina and Cono Oliveri. She was a lifelong resident of East Greenbush and a communicant of the Church of St Mary at Clinton Heights.
She was predeceased by her husband Vincent Zappala, former president of Zappala Block Co. Grace is survived by her sister Jennie Close, nieces & nephews Ralph (Joanna) Viola, John (Mary) Viola, Jean (Gary) Fuller, Tom (Shelley) Viola, Joe (Jennifer) Sambito, Annette (Edward) Day and Robert Sambito. She was also loved by many Great nieces and nephews.
Grace and Vince were married on February 4, 1956, built their home in East Greenbush, NY and resided there their entire lives. Although Vince and Grace had no children of their own, they were blessed with nieces and nephews that they considered their own.
Her life revolved around her husband, a truly dedicated housewife and best friend for over 56 years. The saying through sickness and good health held true as Grace took care of her husband's Alzheimer's disease for many years.
Grace was a founding member of the Leonardo Da Vinci Lodge Ladies Auxiliary and was always at Bingo working in the kitchen. Neighbors will remember Grace working tirelessly alongside her husband outside in her gardens and landscape. Her butter sprinkle Christmas cookies were enjoyed by family and friends for many, many years.
Grace was old fashioned, old school, and set in her ways. God Bless you Aunt Grace!
The family would like to extend their deep gratitude and appreciation to Joyce, Pat and Lynnette for the excellent care they provided to our aunt for many years.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Calling Hours Tuesday morning 9:00-10:30 at the Rockefeller Funeral Home, 165 Columbia Tpk., Rensselaer and then 11 o'clock at The Church of St. Mary at Clinton Heights where the Liturgy of Christian Death and Burial will be celebrated. Interment will follow at the Calvary Cemetery Glenmont, NY.
The Family has requested that those who wish to remember Grace, make memorial contributions to the W.F. Bruen Rescue Squad 1116 Red Mill Road, Rensselaer, NY 12144.