Jolene V. "Nene" Bianco

Mrs. Jolene V. “Nene” (Johns) Bianco, 81, passed away peacefully with her loved ones by her side and in her heart, Thursday, June 16, 2022, in the Abraham House.

Jolene was born in Utica, May 8, 1941, the daughter of the late Joseph and Jacqueline (Pepe) Johns. She was educated locally and graduated from T.R. Proctor High School.  At the early age of 14, Jolene met the love of her life, Anthony “Bucky” Bianco, and the couple wed on November 4, 1961 and spent 52 inseparable and devoted years of love together, until Bucky passed away on October 28, 2013. Jolene spent many years maintaining the books in the family business, A.T. Bianco Nurseries, and later as a Realtor for Royal Rose Realty.  She spent many years living in the Florida Keys, in support of Bucky’s love of being “on the water” fishing.

If there was an angel on earth, it was Nene. She possessed a truly sweet soul, could see the good in anyone, and was optimistic in any situation. A devoted wife; Nene and Bucky were perfectly made for one and other, and together they weathered many ups and downs in life, and never lost their zest for living. As a mother and Sito, she adored her sons and their children and was proud of all their accomplishments. She enjoyed watching all kinds of sports, but especially football and basketball, and was always a staunch supporter in the stands at her children’s and grandchildren’s games. Nene was an incredible cook always dedicated to ensuring her family and guests were well fed and comfortable. She had a passion for reading, which led to an expansive vocabulary and wealth of knowledge on various topics. Over the years, she enjoyed many games of scrabble with her grandchildren, always known for being a stickler on the rules. Never wanting to be a burden to anyone, she lived independently and left this world on her own terms. It is comforting to know she is reunited with her beloved Bucky, her brother, Ron, and so many of her loved ones, we now have “our angel” in heaven watching over us.

She is survived by her two loving sons and daughters-in-law, Anthony “AT” and Jody Bianco of Frankfort, and Joseph “Casey” and Tammy Bianco of NC; six grandchildren, who lovingly referred to her as “Sito”, Alexa, Lyndsay, Anthony, Sammy, Martino, and Aiden; her sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Jackie Johns, John and Robin Bianco, and Eugene and Paula Bianco; her aunt, Rose Saba; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her step-father, Vincent Martino; brother, Ron Johns; nephew, Joseph Johns; and sister-in-law, Faye Bianco.

Her funeral will be held on Wednesday, June 29th, at 10:00 a.m., at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, with interment in Calvary Cemetery.

In Jolene’s memory, please consider donations to the Abraham House at theabrahamhouse.org

The family wishes to thank The Abraham House, and the staff of the ICU and Unit 3A of St. Elizabeth Medical Center, for all the care shown to Jolene during this difficult time.

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