Shirley D. Fontanella's Obituary
Shirley (Delpho) Fontanella, 90, of Liverpool, passed away on September 5, 2019 at Francis House in Syracuse, NY surrounded by the everlasting love of God and her family. She was born in Oneida, NY on March 28, 1929, daughter of the late Jacob and Lena (Mowry) Delpho. She graduated from Nottingham High School (1947) in Syracuse and attended Syracuse University. She worked at the New York Telephone Company (later AT&T), retiring as a Force Manager after 39 years….a place she thoroughly loved, having made many lifelong friends and acquaintances through her years of service there.
She was predeceased by her husband of 56 years, Joseph Fontanella, Sr., and her siblings, Pauline Mundy and Jay Delpho, as well as by many life-long close friends.
She is survived by her children, Joseph (Sharon) Fontanella, Jr. of Manassas, VA, Sandra (Richard) Neale of Liverpool, NY and Terry (Pamela) Fontanella, also of Liverpool, NY; grandchildren, Anne (Craig) Humphreys, Richard Neale, Jr., Natalie (Henry) Ortez-Oliva, Brian Neale, Joseph Fontanella, and Michael Fontanella; a great-granddaughter, Harper Humphreys, and a great-grandson due in November; several nieces and nephews, and many friends.
Shirley loved the time she spent with her family and friends, especially her children and grandchildren.
She and her husband enjoyed their golden years wintering in Myrtle Beach, visiting family, and traveling, especially travels to Europe. Shirley had a servant’s heart, and lovingly cared for her family and her friends. She enjoyed cooking, tending to her yard and home. She was a gentle and caring soul, loved and cherished by all who knew her. The door was always open and her hospitality warm and inviting to all who entered.
“Well done good and faithful servant.” Mt 25:23 You loved others as Christ loves us. Finally home, dear one.
Family and friends may call on Monday, September 9, 2019 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm at THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY. A Funeral Mass in celebration of Shirley’s life will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2019, 10:30 am at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Liverpool with entombment services to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery Mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Francis House, 108 Michaels Avenue, Syracuse, NY 13208 or visit at francishouseny.org
What’s your fondest memory of Shirley?
What’s a lesson you learned from Shirley?
Share a story where Shirley's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Shirley you’ll never forget.
How did Shirley make you smile?