The Obituary Section

Linda Jean Risucci

, New York

September 13, 2026

UTICA – Linda Jean Risucci, age 68, passed away on Monday, September 14, 2026, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, which she faced with the utmost grace.Born on November 2, 1957, Linda was the daughter of the late Nicholas V. “Nick” and Jennie R. (Marino) Risucci. She was a graduate of T. R. Proctor High School, Class of 1975.At one time, she shared a relationship with the late Jose Fuentes, and from that union came the blessing of a daughter.In her younger years, Linda worked in hospitality and also enjoyed working with children. She was one of the kindest and most gentle souls, with a deep love for her faith, her family, and her animals. Her family was the most important part of her life, and she always made time to lovingly care for her pets.Linda’s friendly nature allowed her to easily forge lasting relationships, most recently with her…

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Billy Lee Smith

, New York

September 25, 2026

JACKSONVILLE, FL – Billy Lee Smith, beloved brother, cherished friend, and devoted veteran, passed away on September 26, 2026, at the age of 72 in Jacksonville, Florida.Born on January 31, 1954, in Belle Glade, Florida, Billy was a vibrant soul known for his love of cars, Motown music, and the joy he found in spending time with family and friends.Billy graduated from Thomas R. Proctor High School in Utica, New York, before joining the U.S. Army in July 1979, where he served as a 92A Automated Logistics Specialist. He proudly completed two tours in Germany and one tour in Korea. During his time in the Army, Billy was recognized with several awards, including the Good Conduct Medal (x6), National Defense Service Medal (x2), Army Achievement Medal (x2), Army Commendation Medal (x3), and NCO Professional Development Ribbon (x3), culminating in a well-deserved retirement in December 1993 with an Honorable Discharge. He…

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Sr. Thomas R. Luley

, New York

October 9, 2026

Thomas R. Luley, Sr., 76, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2026, after fighting the good fight. He died as he lived, with his loving family by his side.Born on June 3rd, 1950, in Utica, he was the son of the late Harold and Eleanor (Moylan) Luley. A graduate of Utica Free Academy, Tom earned his bachelor’s degree from Utica College.On June 24, 1972, he married the love of his life, Loretta Palmieri at St. Mark’s Catholic Church, a blessed union of 54 years.Prior to retirement, Tom was a resource manager at the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities. He was also a long-time member and employee of the Fitness Mill. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Family was always first. Tom was an involved member of his community, serving without seeking recognition. He was a Boy Scout leader and coached multiple teams at Notre Dame and…

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Ruth M. Piersma

, New York

Mrs. Ruth M. Piersma 63 of Whitesboro passed away on Friday October 9. 2026 at the Utica Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Utica. Ruth was born in New Berlin NY on February 9 1963 the daughter of George and Mary Smith DesGrosielliers and received her education at Ilion High School. On March 15 2003 Ruth was united in marriage to Thomas Eric Piersma at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints in Utica. Together they shared many years of love companionship and cherished memories. Ruth enjoyed the simple pleasures in life especially playing Bingo. She also had a special fondness for unicorns which brought her joy. Ruth is survived by her beloved husband Thomas her loving children Patricia Saville and David Kate Saville her mother Mary DesGrosielliers her brother George DesGrosielliers and her sister Teresa Dennis Congdon. She is also survived by her motherinlaw and fatherinlaw Kathy and Deacon…

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Eloy Maya

, New York

October 8, 2026

Eloy Big E Maya Papa 87 of Rome passed away on Friday October 9 2026 at home with his family by his side. He was born in Rome NY on January 27 1939 son of the late Adolph Ninchi and Theresa Maya. He graduated from Rome Free Academy and served in the US Army from 1963 to 1965. Eloy returned to Rome and managed Romohawk Tobacco for over 30 years.On October 18 1969 he was united in marriage to Patricia Joanis. Eloy was an avid bowler and member of the 700club played recreational softball and rallied friends and family in many games of backyard bocce. He enjoyed all things water like spending hours upon hours in his backyard pool fishing trips with the guys and family vacations at the beach.Eloy had a passion for wagering on the ponies a regular at OTBLegends and frequented Vernon Downs.More recently you could find…

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Martin S Debella

, New York

October 6, 2026

Martin S. DeBella 86 of Rome New York passed away peacefully on October 7 2026. He was born on February 20 1940 son of the late James and Mary Wolak DeBella.After graduating from Rome Free Academy in 1957 Martin moved to New York City where he studied cosmetology. He later returned to Rome and owned and operated Salon DeBella for many years. Through his work as a hairstylist he formed lasting relationships with clients and became a familiar face in the community. After closing the salon Martin began a second career as a blackjack dealer at Turning Stone Resort Casino where he worked until his retirement. In his free time Martin enjoyed cooking fishing and spending time with his family. Martin is survived by his children and their spouses Manya DeBella Jerry of Utica Michele DeBella Lewis Matthew of New York City James M. DeBella Michelene of Plattsburgh and Dominique…

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Albert C Johnson

, New York

October 9, 2026

Albert C. Johnson 81 of Liverpool NY passed away peacefully on Saturday October 10 2026 surrounded by his loving family.He was born April 13 1945 in Rome NY son of the late Charles and Rose Lombino Johnson. Al was a devoted father grandfather brother and friend. He will be remembered for his kindness strength sense of humor generosity and dedication to his family and for the love he shared with everyone fortunate to know him. He dedicated 31 years working at New York State Developmental Disability Services Office NYS DDSO where he took great pride in his work and accomplishments. Above all his greatest joy was his family. He cherished the time spent with them and created countless memories that will remain with them forever. He is survived by his children Michael Laurie Johnson of Cicero NY Michele Tom Doeing of Liverpool NY his brothers Richard Carol Johnson of Rome…

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