Mrs. Donna M. Attili, 72, passed away unexpectedly, Wednesday, October 20, 2021, with her loved ones by her side, at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare.
Donna was born in Utica, March 15, 1949, a daughter of the late Frank A. and Antoinette “Teek” (Era) Nicoletta. She was educated in local schools and a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. Following high school, Donna attended Rosary Hill College, where she earned her teacher’s degree in education.
On May 27, 1973, Donna was joined in marriage to John B. Attili. Donna and John shared over forty-four loving years of marriage, living and raising their family, here in Utica. Her beloved John, passed away on October 14, 2017.
Donna was an elementary school teacher, who predominantly taught 1st grade at Whitesboro Elementary School, for over thirty-three years.
A regular little “spitfire”, she was small in size, but her heart was enormous. Always on the move, she loved her home and was in a constant state of redecorating and remodeling. She enjoyed her garden and was especially proud of her roses. The go-to person for everyone, she was always there no matter what you needed. A lover of animals, she continued the Nicoletta family tradition of always having a collie, and loved her canine pal, “Nonny”. Donna loved being with family and friends, enjoyed knitting for everyone and was the most amazing cook, though sadly her recipes were all in her head. Her children were her pride and joy and she was very proud of all their accomplishments. A person who was always fun to be with and have a cocktail (or two!!!), Donna will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
She is survived by her beloved daughter and son-in-law, Kristen and Kenneth Lott; her son, John E. Attili and his partner, Renee Arcuri; grandchildren, Elyzabeth Lott and Austyn Lott; great granddaughter, Jayden Elizabeth; her sister, Francine Nicoletta; three brothers and two sisters-in-law, Frank A. “Jake” Nicoletta Jr., John and Kate Nicoletta and Gavin and Jennifer Nicoletta; two brothers-in-law and sisters in law, Cynthia and Theodore Zammiello and Bernard III and Elvira Attili; and also many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, especially acknowledging, Diane Testa, who was her “partner in crime”. Donna was predeceased by her brother, Mark Nicoletta; and father-in-law and mother-in-law, Bernardino and Uliana (Alteri) Attili.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, at 10:30 a.m., at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. She will be laid to rest beside her husband John, at St. Agnes Cemetery.
In memory of Donna, please consider your own favorite charity.
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