Thelma P. Zongrone, 85, of Utica passed away Wednesday October 28, 2009 at Faxton- St. Luke's Healthcare. Thelma was born in Utica on November 3, 1923 a daughter of Edward M. and Sarah Ann (Stevener) Lynch. She grew up a member of the Zion Lutheran Church. She attended Kernan Grade School and the Utica School System where she excelled in track and field. In 1940 Thelma married Steven Payne. Thelma was later married to John E. Zongrone until his passing in 1975. Thelma began her working career in the mid 1940's at the Florentine Bakery in Utica. She later worked at Beaunit Fibers, the Utica School System, and her working career ended at the Mid-York Library System where she retired in 2000. Thelma was an avid New York Yankee fan. Her spare time was spent playing cards, cooking, and loved baking desserts for family occasions. She was happiest being with her family and her most joyous times were the holidays. Thelma is survived by her six children and their spouses; Stephen and Sharon Payne, Bridgewater, James and Candace Payne, Utica, Richard Payne, Utica, Jonene and Peter Orsaeo, Clayville, John and Anna Zongrone, Utica and Thelma's devoted daughter and caregiver Jennifer "Shenny" Zongrone, Utica, with whom she resided. "Love you more". Also surviving, a sister Ethelyn Wilcott, FL, 14 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren 3 great great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, cousins, and a close friend of the family; Jerry Orsaeo, New Hartford Thelma always looked forward to visits from family and her three special great grandsons; Sebastian, Sage and Solan. Thelma was predeceased by 3 brothers; Charles, Edward and James Lynch, three sisters; Eleanor Crouse, Evelyn Roberts and Dorothy Walker and a special friend; Dora "Dot" Randazzo Martello. Mrs. Zongrone's funeral service will be held on her 86th birthday Tuesday, November 3, 2009 at 1:00 P.M. at Zion Lutheran Church, New Hartford. Burial will be in Crown Hill Memorial Park. Calling hours for family members and relatives are Tuesday morning from 10-12 at the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica. The family would like to thank Dr. Naji El-Khoury and the staffs of the CCU, ICU and 6th floor of Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare for all the care given to Thelma.