Dorothy M. Chiesa

Dorothy M. (DeGianton) Chiesa, also known as Dottie, 90, of Camillus, passed away February 20, 2021 at Francis House. Born in Newark, NY, she moved to the Syracuse area in 1962. Dorothy worked in her home as a hairdresser for many years and when her friends couldn’t come to her, she made visits to Francis House. She was also top salesperson at Silver & Gold Connection in Camillus. A devout Catholic and communicant of St. Joseph’s Church, Dorothy was former president and member of its Altar & Rosary Society and taught religious education. Dorothy loved playing cards, cooking meals, making delicious food for senior luncheons, and hosting holidays and birthdays for her children and their families. She made friends with everyone and her greeting when saying goodbyes was “Jesus loves you, and so do I.”

Dorothy was predeceased by her first husband, James K. Baker, in 1953; second husband, Deacon Richard Chiesa, in 2004; daughter, Mary, in 1960; and sister, Elinor Bryan.

Surviving are her daughter, Maria (Rob) Sheriffs of Naples, FL; sons, James (Mary) of Syracuse, Richard II (Betsy) of Orlando, FL, Daniel (Christine) of Baldwinsville and Craig (Laurel) of Manlius; sister, Shirley Pendergast of Cape Cod, MA; grandchildren, Jason, Chris, Kayleen, Scott, Theresa, Kelly, Casey, Colleen, Maya, Kyle, Will and Brian; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Relatives and friends may call Monday, March 1 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus. Face coverings are required.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, March 2 at 11 a.m. in St. Joseph’s Church, 5600 West Genesee St., Camillus. Dorothy will be laid to rest in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Skaneateles.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave., Syracuse, NY 13208.