Obituary of Philomena M. Messina

At the age of 92, blessed with an abundance of love, laughter, and close friendships, Philomena, on Christmas morning, was released from her bonds of suffering and received into God's glorious arms. It can be said, without pause, that the lives she touched,family, friends, beloved pets, and backyard creatures alike, were better off for it. Philomena was born in Elmira the daughter of Attilio and Nicholina (Cinelli) Berardi. She is predeceased by her husband Anthony F. Messina, and siblings, Nicholes Berardi, Frances Fragnito and Josephine Thompson. She is survived by her loving children, and their families, Frank A. and Terry Messina of Elmira, with whom she lived with; Gloria and Frank Romen of Elmira with Gloria's children, Christina (Carlos) Williams of Florida, Michael Jividen of Elmira, and Frank's son Joseph Romen; Marlena Henke of Horseheads with daughters, Katherine and Emily, and their father Francis Henke; great-grandchildren, Dellen, Trinity and Kacey Williams; siblings, Theresa D'Abbracci of Penn Yan and Joseph Berardi of Las Vegas NV; along with many nieces and nephews. In earlier years Philomena worked at the Elmira Knitting Mill, then became a stay at home mom, raising her three children. She loved animals, feeding the birds and squirrels in her backyard and there was always a dog in the house. Philomena was well known in her neighborhoold for her wonderful Christmas cookies and her neighbors looked forward to their annual plate of goodies. A wonderful and much loved wife, mom and grandmother, Philomena will be forever loved and missed. Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W. Water Street, Elmira, on Friday, December 29, 2017 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A prayer service will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, December 30, 2017, 9:15 a.m., follwed by a 10:00 a.m., Mass of Christian Burial at Ss. Peter and Paul Church, 161 High Street, Elmira. Interment, with committal prayers, will follow at St. Peter and Paul's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, those wishing, may remember Philomena with a donation to a charity of their choice. The Messina family would like to extend a special thank you to Chris Odum, Corning Guthrie Hospital, and Robert Packer Hospital for the wonderful care given their mother.