Jemma M. Cancelino

Herkimer - Jemma Marie Cancelino, age 100, of the Masonic Home and formerly of Herkimer, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at the Wynn Hospital, Utica, NY with her loving daughter by her side.

She was born on March 25, 1924, in Herkimer, to Domenico and Louise (Cinquino) Giangregorio.

Her marriage to Frank A. Cancelino took place on September 14, 1946, at St. Anthony's Church in Herkimer, NY. The couple shared a blessed union of 56 years until the passing of Frank on April 22, 2003.

Jemma's century was filed with hard work and good times. She and Frank built a life together when Frank returned from serving in WWII. In the early 50's they tried their luck in California but quickly realized that Herkimer was where the heart is.

Jemma was not just an amazing partner in life but also in business, working tirelessly alongside Frank. Together, they owned multiple businesses along State Street in Herkimer, starting with the Lil Chief Drive-In restaurant and eventually moved on to Jet Photo, capturing the memories of their community.

If there was work to be done, you wouldn't find Jemma sitting around. Even in her 80's, long after she "retired," Jemma was still showing up at Jet Photo, ready to help her daughter and son-in-law with anything they needed. She showed up daily, eager to help in any way she could, always with a plate of food in hand. Her dedication was so intense that she wore a hole in the linoleum floor where she worked.

Jemma lived life to the fullest and always encouraged her family to do the same. She and Frank often visited Las Vegas, as they both enjoyed going to casinos. Jemma never passed up a game of cards, when at the casino you would always find her at the craps or blackjack tables.

Jemma was a beloved friend to many, always ready to lend a hand. Those who crossed paths with Jemma know that her cooking was legendary. Eggplant parm, pizza, her famous pineapple squares - you name it, she made it, and it was delicious.

Her family and friends admired her not only for her hard work and perseverance but also for her unwavering love and support. Jemma's legacy of resilience, kindness and love will always be remembered.

Survivors include her son, F. Alan Cancelino and wife Susan; her daughter, Sheila Sanders and husband David; her grandchildren, Alan Cancelino and partner, Scott Perry, Lisa Scherer and husband Scott, Frank Sanders and Davina Russo and husband Johnny; her great grandchildren, Devin Scherer and fiancé Noah Jerard, Mitchell Scherer; her great great granddaughter, Ellianna Scherer; and several nieces, nephews and cousins, including Molly and Michael Evola.

She was pre-deceased by her husband, Frank; her infant son, David; her siblings, Rose (Tony) Evola, Bessie (Nick) Maneen, Lucy (Phil) Conte, Nick (Florence) Giangregorio, and Vincent (Jennie) Giangregorio; in-laws, Eva (Frank) DeJohn and Sam (Kate) Cancelino.

Her family will forever cherish the memories they shared with Jemma, the wisdom she imparted and the lessons she taught work hard, enjoy life and always make yourself useful.

Jemma's family would like to thank Masonic Care Community, Woodgate Household for the great care they provided for the past four years and Wynn Hospital, 6W nurses Danielle and Tammy and Dr. Rashid

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at 10:00 am at the Church of Sts. Anthony & Joseph, South Main St., Herkimer, NY, with Rev. Thomas Babuich, officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer, NY. There are no calling hours. Arrangements are under the caring guidance of the Vincent A. Enea Funeral Service, (next to Hannaford Markets). 527 E. Albany S., Herkimer, NY.

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