Florence Effie Piccione, 96, of Utica, passed away on August 29, 2026, after a long and full life centered on family and the people she loved.

     Florence was born on February 16, 1930, in Utica, New York, the daughter of the late Raymond and Gladys (Yates) Wiegand. Born Florence Effie Wiegand, she married Anthony Piccione on June 2, 1956. Together, they shared many years of marriage, raised their family, and built a life filled with memories that would eventually span four generations. During her working years, Florence was employed by General Electric and later spent many years at Foedish Woman’s Shop, where she especially enjoyed her work and the friendships she made along the way.

     Family was always at the heart of Florence’s life. She leaves her son, Jerry Piccione; her daughter, Nadine Kaczmarek and her husband, James; her granddaughters, Angelina and Nicole, and Nicole’s boyfriend, Matthew Van Dusen; and her beloved great granddaughter, Maggie. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Florence was predeceased by her husband, Anthony Piccione; her sister, Doris; and her brothers, Raymond, Lawrence, George, and Howard.   

     Florence was an avid reader throughout her life and found great pleasure in books. She always took great pride in her appearance and dressed to the “Nines” She loved sitting outdoors, enjoying good food, and, most of all, spending time with her family. Some of her happiest moments were often the simplest ones—being surrounded by the people she loved, sharing a meal, a conversation, a cup of coffee, or simply enjoying one another’s company. Florence also had a love of horse racing and enjoyed playing cards at the casino. She delighted in going to garage sales. The Adirondacks held a special place in her heart, and she treasured the time she spent there with family and friends. Whether it was an outing, a day in the Adirondacks, or simply sitting together over coffee, Florence found happiness in sharing life with the people around her. Over the course of her 96 years, Florence witnessed a world that changed enormously, but the things that mattered most to her remained much the same: family, home, friendship, and the people she held close. She had the special gift of living to know not only her children and grandchildren, but also her great-granddaughter, Maggie, adding another generation to the family she loved so dearly. Florence’s life cannot be measured simply by the number of years she lived, but by the lives she touched and the generations of family who will carry a part of her with them. Her absence will be deeply felt in the familiar gatherings, conversations, meals, cups of coffee, and everyday moments that made up a lifetime together. Although Florence will be greatly missed, her family is grateful for the many years they were fortunate enough to share with her. The stories they tell, the traditions they continue, and the memories they hold will keep her close and ensure that her presence remains part of their family for generations to come.

     Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to Florence’s funeral Mass of Christian burial on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Our Lady of Lourdes Campus, 2222 Genesee St., Utica, NY 13502. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Utica.

     Those wishing to honor Florence’s memory, are kindly asked to consider a donation to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 4277 Middle Settlement Rd., New Hartford, NY 13413. Donation envelopes will be available at church.