Jacqueline M. Grande

Jacqueline “Jackie” Grande age 78, passed away on Thursday February 15, 2024, with her loving family by her side.

Jacqueline was born on October 6 ,1945 in Utica, NY, a twin daughter of the late Daniel and Josephine Grandinette Dichiera.

 Jackie grew up locally in a large family filled with love, laughter and joy. She had a unique pleasure of growing up with her twin sister “Niki” who was also her best friend. Jackie loved tending to her flowers, and always had daisies growing in her garden. Jackie’s biggest love was her family. Jackie was at her happiest when her three children were by her side. Jackie would smother them with kisses every chance she could and her children lovingly returned her affection.

 “Remember me with smiles not tears, for all the joy throughout the years, recall the closeness that was ours, a love as sweet as fragrant flowers.”

 Jackie was united in marriage to Richard Grande in 1965. A marriage that blessed them with their three children.

 Jackie is survived by her longtime companion Thomas Ganci, her three cherished children; JoAnn (Lyle) Shorey, Richard (Debra Harris) Grande and Dominick (Michelle) Grande, four sisters; Delores “Dee” Sarcone,  Theresa “Tessie” Collico, her twin sister Nicoletta “Niki” Strickler and Rita (Pete) Moore, sister-in-law Marguerite Dichiera, granddaughter Sarah Shorey-Jackson, and many neices, nephews and grand nieces and nephews.

 Jackie was predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law Rose Marie “Roe” and John” Lanny” Romano, her brother Anthony Dichiera, and her brothers-in-law Anthony Collico, James Stickler and Joseph Sarcone.

Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 from 4 PM to 6 PM at the Scala and Roefaro Funeral Home, 1122 Culver Ave, Utica. Funeral services will be Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at 10 AM at Mt. Carmel Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Private interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Arrangements by Scala & Roefaro Funeral Home Inc. 1122 Culver Ave. Utica, under the guidance of David Roefaro and Stephen Karboski, Directors.