Assembly Resolution No. 884

BY: M. of A. Buttenschon

CONGRATULATING Antoinette M. Passiatore LaPaglia,
of Utica, New York, upon the occasion of celebrating
her 105th Birthday on February 5, 2026

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to commemorate
and recognize certain milestones celebrated by citizens of this great
Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Senior citizens bring a wealth of experience and knowledge
to the increasingly active roles they play in today's society; their
past contributions and continued presence are a vital part of, and
valuable asset to, the fabric of community life; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
congratulate Antoinette M. Passiatore LaPaglia, of Utica, New York, upon
the occasion of celebrating her 105th Birthday on Thursday, February 5,
2026; and

WHEREAS, Born in Utica, New York, on February 5, 1921, Antoinette M.
LaPaglia is the daughter of Giovanni Passiatore and Antoinette
Pietrapolo, and following the early passing of her mother, she was
lovingly raised by her stepmother, Palmina Passiatore; and

WHEREAS, Antoinette Passiatore attended Brandegee School in Utica
through the eighth grade, and at the young age of sixteen, she met the
love of her life, Carmen LaPaglia; the two were married on June 21,
1937, at St. Mary of Mount Carmel Church in Utica, beginning a devoted
partnership grounded in faith, perseverance, and family; and

WHEREAS, A devoted mother, Antoinette LaPaglia was blessed with
children whom she loved deeply; she endured the loss of her son, John,
born April 18, 1938, who predeceased her on January 5, 1995; her
daughter, Florence, who passed away in infancy; and her daughter,
Florence, born August 19, 1943, who predeceased her on December 13,
2003; she is the proud mother of her surviving son, Carmen LaPaglia,
born February 25, 1941, who resides in Erie, Pennsylvania, with his
wife, Sally; and

WHEREAS, Antoinette LaPaglia's legacy continues through her 13
grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and four
great-great-grandchildren, a remarkable testament to a life devoted to
family, love, and perseverance, even as she has endured the loss of one
grandchild; and

WHEREAS, Throughout her working life, Antoinette LaPaglia was known
for her strong work ethic and dedication, having been employed at Oneida
Knitting Mill in the 1940s, General Electric from 1956 to 1983, and
later serving in various schools, retiring at the age of 86; she also
cleaned homes throughout the Utica area, always extending kindness and
care to others; and

WHEREAS, For the past four years, Antoinette LaPaglia has resided at
Wiley Hall Assisted Living Facility where she continues to receive good
care and remains active in spirit, often cooking for fellow residents
and maintaining her lifelong devotion to helping others; and

WHEREAS, A woman of deep and abiding faith, Antoinette LaPaglia
prays the rosary daily and watches the Catholic channel, drawing
strength and comfort from her faith through both joy and loss; and

WHEREAS, Antoinette LaPaglia's life reflects a steadfast commitment
to family, faith, and service, and her enduring message is one of peace,
compassion, and respect for all people, encouraging others to have faith
and treat one another with kindness; and

WHEREAS, With her grace, resilience, and unwavering spirit,
Antoinette M. Passiatore LaPaglia has enriched the lives of all who
know her and stands as a shining example of a life well lived; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Antoinette M. Passiatore LaPaglia, of Utica, New York, upon
the occasion of celebrating her 105th Birthday on February 5, 2026; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Antoinette M. Passiatore LaPaglia.