Rosalina Ferranti (Anelli)

Rosalina "Lina" Ferranti (Anelli)

Rosalina "Lina" Ferranti (Anelli), 68, passed away peacefully, with grace and dignity, in the arms of her children on Saturday, August 22, 2009, at St. Joseph's Hospital after an unexpected onset of usual interstitial pneumonia leading to Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).

Lina's beautiful smile, laughter, spirit, and life were a joyful inspiration to everyone who was blessed to know her. Lina's extraordinary life began on January 17, 1941, in the Coliseum in Rome, Italy, amidst a World War II air raid. Lina was baptized and married at St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. A lover of art and culture, Lina danced as prima ballerina for the Teatro dell'Opera dance company in Rome, and modeled and designed for the famous Fendi House of Fashion near Piazza di Spagna. A lover of life and adventure, Lina came to America in the early '60s and later single-handedly raised 3 children of whom she was so proud.

A lover of people, Lina volunteered for the humane society, children's services, translation services, and her local churches. A lover of God, Lina kept the faith in various churches and denominations over the years. Lina loved everyone she ever met; and everyone loved Lina. Lina is survived by her 3 children, Denise, Diana, and Antonio; her sister Adua, and the Gorga family, the Mastronardi family, and her aunt Giovanna.

Calling hours will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home in Syracuse, NY, on Thursday, August 27, from 4-7pm, immediately followed by a prayer service. In Rome, Italy, following a high mass at St. Peter's Basilica, Lina will be buried next to her mother, Rosa De Benedictis, at Cimitero del Verano.

Contributions can be made in her honor to the American Humane Society, American Lung Association, and St. Joseph's Hospital.