<b>Visitations</b> <p></p> <b>Services</b> <p>Private</p> <b>Cemetery</b> <p></p> <b>Obituary</b> <p>Our devoted mother and grandmother, Jean M. Zappia, 98, a long time Herkimer resident, passed away peacefully on Saturday January 12, 2008 at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Utica, NY. She was born July 9, 1909 in Buffalo, NY the daughter of the late James &amp; Constance (Siragusa) Dolce. Jean was a graduate of Brocton High School. In April of 1926, she was married to Samuel T. Zappia and shared a blessed union of 70 years until Sam?s death on March 25, 1997. Their marriage was blessed in Dunkirk, NY. As a young wife, Jean worked at many jobs in order to enable her husband to realize his dream of becoming an educator. After his graduation they moved to Herkimer where they became life long residents. It was during World War II that she worked at Remington Arms, making rifles for our brave soldiers. When the war ended she chose to remain at home and dedicate her life to her husband and children. These were her finest hours. The essence of our mother was not so much what she did but what she was as a person. She lead a selfless life. Her wisdom, uncanny common sense, and great compassion provided a framework of values that lives on in her family today. While her husband was the provider, mom was the glue that kept the family together through the tough times. Life wasn?t always easy, but she never complained, always providing us with a soft place to land. Mom was our rock and even though she has left us, we will always be comforted by the wonderful memories that she created. Survivors include her son, Dr. Robert Zappia of Redlands, California, two daughters, Gloria Delwo and husband Wayne of Herkimer and Laureen Zappia also of Redlands, California, four grandchildren, Kris Kelly and husband Matthew of West Harrison, NY, and Dr. Traci Roberto and husband Dr. Joseph Roberto of Loudenville, NY, Marc Zappia and wife Leah of Mentone, California, and Stephanie Zappia of Banning, California, four great grandchildren, Connor, Jack and Reagan Kelly and Kendal Zappia. Our family would like to extend a very special thank you to the staff of One East at Valley Health Services, the kindness and care that you provided Jean will never be forgotten. Deepest appreciation to Dr. Masood and the third floor nursing staff at St. Elizabeth?s for providing our mother with dignity and comfort in her final days. Funeral services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of the Enea Family Funeral Home, 220 N. Washington St., Herkimer, NY. </p>