Harriet Kay Cetola's Obituary
Kay Cetola, 73, of Syracuse, passed away Thursday, May 21, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Raised in Syracuse, daughter of the late Robert and Mary Dunn, Kay received her master’s degree from SUNY Cortland. She went on to teach and serve as athletic director at St. Vincent de Paul School, then taught grades pre-K – 8 over the course of a 40-year career at Blessed Sacrament School in Eastwood. She was a dedicated educator and avid sports fan. She also loved baking, especially cakes, pies, and holiday cookies for her family and friends.
Along with her parents, she is predeceased by her brother, Bob Dunn.
Kay is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Daniel A. Cetola, Jr.; her daughter, Caitlin Cetola (Patrick O’Connor); two step-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Visitation will take place on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 2:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M., immediately followed by a funeral service in celebration of Kay’s life at 4:00 P.M. at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME 3401 Vickery Rd. (Corner of Buckley Rd.) Syracuse, NY 13212.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Kay’s memory may be made to WCNY: The Public Broadcasting Council of Central New York, Inc. by clicking here
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