Theresa Sawatis Sacco

Theresa Sawatis Sacco, 78, of Camillus, passed away Monday at St. Joseph’s Health Hospital. Born in Cornwall, Canada, and raised within the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation, she was a member of the Wolf Clan and lifetime resident of the Syracuse community. A graduate of St. John the Baptist Academy, she dedicated two decades of her life as a special needs teaching assistant for OCM BOCES, making a lasting impact on the lives of those she taught and worked alongside. Theresa was a proud member of the NYS United Teachers Union.

Theresa was a communicant of Holy Family Church, where she found solace and spiritual fulfillment. Beyond her professional and religious engagements, she found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Theresa had a penchant for the excitement of the casino and the camaraderie of bingo and pitch nights with close friends. Her love for shopping with her best friend, Nancy, was evident, making it a leisure activity she cherished.

Among Theresa's greatest joys were her beloved animals. Their companionship brought her comfort and happiness throughout the years. Family held a special place in Theresa's heart. She treasured every moment spent with her loved ones, especially time spent along the St. Lawrence River. She had a special relationship with her beloved grandson, Tyler, with whom she shared many precious memories together.

Theresa was predeceased by her parents, Alexander and Annie Sawatis; brothers, Kernie and Chester Angus Sawatis; and sisters, Daphne Sawatis and Margaret Hart.

Surviving are her husband of 53 years, Ronald; daughters, Kimberly Ann, Lisa, and Ronette Sacco, all of Camillus, and Kim White of Syracuse; grandchildren, Tyler Sacco, and Tenisha and Tamia Brown; great-grandsons, Za’Karey and Kasiem; nephew, John Hart; cousin, Patti “Sis” McGurk; and many other nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Relatives and friends may call Friday, January 26, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, January 27, at 9 a.m. at Holy Family Church, 127 Chapel Dr., Syracuse. 

Theresa will be laid to rest in Assumption Cemetery, Syracuse.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Ronald McDonald House of CNY, 1100 E. Genesee St., Syracuse, NY  13210.