Obituary of Kimberly A Adorino

Capturing the essence of an enlightened soul can be a challenging task with mere words, yet here is our most humble attempt...

Renowned not only for her beauty but also for her depth of character, Kim was a woman of remarkable substance, adored by all who knew her. Bravely confronting a long and diabolical illness, she did so without an ounce of fear. As a devoted mother, daughter, sister and friend, she brought joy and laughter to the lives she touched. Though Kim’s time was brief, her legacy of kindness, intelligence, humor and most notably, courage will endure in the hearts of all who were moved by her presence.

Kimberly Adorino, 56, of Utica, New York, peacefully passed away on March 26, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. She was born on June 4, 1967, to Anthony Adorino III and the late Joanne Reilly-Adorino.

Kim's quick wit and infectious laughter brightened the lives of those around her from her earliest days; her endearing charms were always perceived as genuine and sincere. Throughout her life, she lived with vigor and dignity, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who met her, and her influence extended across every corner of her beloved city.

In her earlier years, Kim embraced the vibrancy of youth during a time when Central New York seemed like the center of the universe. She seized every opportunity, indulging in simple passions such as camping, movies, theater and concerts; whether solo or with a group, she was spirited in her pursuit of new experiences.

Kim graduated from T.R. Proctor High School in 1985. While pursuing her B.S. at SUNY Oneonta in 2002 and completing her M.A. at Touro College in 2004, she maintained a perfect 4.0 average while raising her daughter and operating her own hair salon. Later, Kim dedicated herself to service, driven by her faith and deep passion for children, becoming a beloved teacher in the Utica City School District for over 15 years. She enthusiastically expressed a profound fondness for her students, passionately nurturing their self-esteem both inside and outside the classroom before retiring in 2019.

Kim exemplified unparalleled selflessness and patience as both a mother and sister, steadfastly navigating adversity later in life. Despite the challenges of illness, she remained a pillar of strength and a boundless source of love and support for her greatest achievement in life: her cherished daughter, Alexa Rae.

In a demonstration of equal love and generosity, Alexa faithfully and compassionately cared for her mother during her most trying times, empowering Kim to embrace each day to its fullest. The profound love shared between mother and daughter served as an undeniable inspiration to all who crossed their paths; it knew no bounds.

Kim is survived by her loving daughter, Alexa Rae Montanarelli; her sister and brother-in-law, Stacy and Larry Klein and their children Nicholas, and Zachary; her brother and sister-in-law, Anthony “Tony” IV and Hilary (Lesniak) Adorino and their daughters Hannah, Mia, Lucia, and Gianna; and her father Anthony Adorino III and Joan Brenon. She will also be remembered by many aunts and uncles, especially acknowledging Dr. Cynthia and Jim Cahill, Mary Rose Giruzzi-Green and Darryl Green and their daughters who were Kim’s special cousins, Allie, and Tori; and Mark Giruzzi, Sr. and his children Arianna and Dan Lupo, Marky Giruzzi, and Mark Sr’s partner Gina Courto; the Montanarelli family; her Godchildren who were blessed with her love, Vincent Bevivino, Stephen Penge, Zachary Klein, Madeleine Brucker, and Lucia Adorino; and several cousins including Bernard Adorino, Marla Adorino, Gail Mulvihill, and Michele "Shelly" LaGase. Kim is survived by her loyal, lifelong friends, Shelley Jalonack-Penge, Lorina Steppello, Danielle Coco-Brucker, Michele “Michy” Mandia, Andy Karam, and Renee LaValla-Cardone. She was predeceased by her maternal grandparents, Frank and Helen Reilly-Giruzzi, uncles and aunts, Dennis “Denny” Reilly, Tom and Ada Mulvihill, James “Jimmy” Reilly, Mary Judith “Judy” Giruzzi; family friend, Arthur “Butch” Williams; and dear friends, Gina Jalonack-Raffule, and Debbie Yacco-Bevivino who recently passed on November 25, 2023.

Alexa would be remiss if she did not express her gratitude to her Mom’s caregivers, Danielle and Lorina, who would respond at a moment’s notice to spend time with Kim. It gave Alexa a sense of comfort and support she needed. At her tender age, she learned the meaning of love and dedication that comes with true friendship because of these selfless souls.

Exemplifying immense determination, Kim displayed grace under unimaginable pressure during her final years; this resilience, observed by those closest to her, stands as a testament to her character. Let us derive encouragement from her journey, acknowledging that adversity touches each of us in different ways. May we be blessed with the same grace to maneuver through our own challenges, in accordance with Kim’s wish for us all.

Her place in Heaven will undoubtedly add to its splendor.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at 1:00PM from St. Mark’s Church, 440 Keyes Road, Utica, NY.  where Kim was a faith member for many years.

Kim's family is asking that flowers are omitted and consider a donation in her name that help, support educate children because that was her passion.  Arrangements are with Heintz Funeral Service, Inc. 408 Herkimer Road, Utica, NY.