In Memory of Irene M. Giotto

Obituary

Irene M. Giotto, age 97, of New Hartford, NY, passed away peacefully at her home on January 19, 2026, with family and caregivers by her side.  She was born on August 29, 1928, in Oneonta, New York, a daughter of the late Earl J. Walters and Elizabeth Clark.  Irene was a graduate of Oneonta High School. In 1947, she married Andrew A. Giotto in Oneonta. Andrew predeceased her in 1998. Irene enjoyed a fulfilling life.  Her caring nature and warmth were evident in all she did. 

She was a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and served as a member of many other associations. She greatly enjoyed playing Bridge, Canasta, reading, hosting family dinners, movies at Munson, traveling, caring for her cats, and feeding her crows.  

Social by nature and deeply devoted to her loved ones, she placed special importance on Sunday dinners. It was the time when everyone gathered around the table, stories were shared, family photos were taken, and laughter filled the room. 

Irene was famously sharp witted and a true master of Scrabble, often delighting in the fact that she could (and did) beat her competitors well into her late 90s. Her quick mind and competitive spirit were matched only by her sense of humor. She loved to laugh and believed that joy lived in the walls of a happy home. To her grandchildren and all their friends, she was lovingly known as Nanny.

Above all else, Irene cherished her family. She found her greatest joy in time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and she will be remembered for her love, kindness, and devotion to them.

Irene is survived by her son and daughter in law, Frank and Kristine Giotto, her daughter Elizabeth Giotto and her fiancé Robert Schram; her grandchildren, Valerie and Steve Bolitho, Samantha and Jim Schmatz, Andrew A. Giotto, F. Nicholas and Patricia Giotto, Victor and Jordan Giotto, and Greg and Courtney Bowie; her great grandchildren, Benjamin Masters, Cooper Middleton, Alivia Schmatz, Bianca Schmatz, Joshua Schmatz, Fiona Schmatz, Waylynn Bowie, Andrew J. Giotto, Francesca Giotto, Elaina Giotto; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her husband, Irene was predeceased by her sisters, Geraldine Holcomb, Jane Conklin, and Nancy Holling; her sister in law, Grace Conklin, and brother in law Joseph Giotto.

Irene was fortunate to be able to stay at home until her passing because of the wonderful care team she had.  The family would like to extend their gratitude to Janet, Martha, Patty M., Patty D., Lena, Carol, Trista, and Shannon.  Your kindness and care were exceptional.

Services will be private at the discretion of the family. Interment will take place in the spring at Oriskany Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Friedel, Williams, and Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, New Hartford.

In lieu of flowers, friends may consider a charity of their choice in Irene’s memory.

To offer online expressions of sympathy go to Fwefh.com