Obituary of Lucy Polsinelli

Lucia "Lucy" Polsinelli, 92, entered into eternal life on Thursday, March 5, 2015. Born in Arpino, Italy, Province of Frosinone on January 18, 1923, she was the daughter of Vincenzo and Antonia Pettiti Polsinelli. Lucy was educated in Italy and in 1938 immigrated to the United States with her family. She graduated from St. Joseph's High School, in North Adams, Ma. Lucy went on to the The College of St. Rose where she graduated in 1970 with a Bachelor's of Science in Early Childhood Education. Because of her deep devotion to our Lord, Jesus Christ, and a strong calling, she left home at the age of 17 and entered the Roman Catholic religious order of the Venerini Sisters. There she taught in many diocesan schools in both New York and Massachusetts. After leaving the religious order, the ministry of education became the focus of her energies and with the help and support of her family, she opened Schenectady Learning Foundation on Van Vranken Avenue in Schenectady, where she resided. She dedicated her life to teaching pre-school children and nurturing their love of learning. Her school was like a "home away from home" as she provided a warm and loving environment as well as healthy meals with fresh vegetables from her garden and her famous homemade chicken soup. After retirement, she enjoyed gardening, sewing and cooking but most of all, spending time with her family and she was overjoyed at each new arrival into the family. Her home was open to all, welcoming everyone with her infectious smile and generous spirit. She was a communicant and supporter of St. Anthony's Church in Schenectady and despite leaving the convent, she remained close to God throughout her life, following Christ's example--the legacy of a life dedicated to serving others. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her two sisters, Angelina Serafini and Philomena Valentine, her four brothers, Biagio Polsinelli, Frederico Polsinelli, Clementine Polsinelli and Peter Polsinelli and her brothers-in law, Luigi Serafini and Benjamin Valentine. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Vincenza Polsinelli of Schenectady and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Calling hours for Lucy will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2015 from 10:00AM-11:00AM at St. John the Evangelist Church, 806 Union Street, Schenectady, relatives and friends are invited to attend. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00AM at the Church. Entombment will take place at St. Anthony's Cemetery, Glenville. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Lucy can be made to the St. Anthony's Church Restoration Fund, 331 Seward Place, Schenectady, NY 12305 The family would like to give thanks to the staff of Our Lady of Mercy Life Center for the compassionate care and friendship they provided Lucy where she resided in her final months. Online condolences www.glenvillefuneralhome.com