Linda E. Torchia

Linda E. Torchia, 80, of Utica, passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Wynn Hospital surrounded by her loving family. Born on September 15, 1944, in Utica, Linda was the daughter of the late George and Bertha (Zabinski) Abraham. She attended Holy Trinity Grammar School and graduated from St. Francis de Sales High School. She later continued her education at MVCC, earning an Associate's Degree in Accounting. On July 4, 1964, Linda married the love of her life, Gerald "Jake" Roberts and after a long wait, they were blessed with one daughter. Sadly, she mourned his passing only a couple of years later. Linda later married Thomas Torchia who also predeceased her. Linda retired from the City of Utica where she served as Registrar of Vital Statistics for over 20 years. Her passion was tax preparation. As a tax preparer and enrolled IRS agent, she worked for H & R Block right up until her death. This would have been her 40th year. At one time, she also served as an Oneida County Legislator. Most of all, Linda was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend who cherished time spent with those she loved. Surviving is her daughter and son-in-law, Patricia (Trish) and Lou Rugari, whom she considered her son, Deerfield; grandsons and "granddaughters", David and Tracey Rugari, Whitesboro, Craig and Katelin Rugari, Deerfield and Lucas Rugari and Colleen Burth of Utica and great-grandchildren, Dominick Rugari and Maya Rugari. She also leaves her sister, Joyce Murphy and several special nephews, nieces and friends. She was predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law, Diane and John "Jack" O'Connor and brother-in-law, Raymond "Pete" Murphy. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Thursday, February 13, from 4 to 6 p.m. at McGrath, Myslinski, Kowalczyk & Nunn Funeral Directors, 470 French Rd., Utica. Funeral services will commence immediately following visitation at 6 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider remembrances in Linda's name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org). Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Linda, please visit our floral store.