Catherine Paonessa, 94, of Youngstown, NY, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2023 at her residence surrounded by her family under the care of Niagara Hospice. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Viola (Justiana) Scimemi.

Catherine was raised in Niagara Falls where she graduated from Niagara Falls High School. On April 30, 1949 she married her loving husband, Joseph Paonessa at St. Joseph's Church. They spent 69 memorable years together prior to his passing in 2018.

Catherine was employed by Grossman, Levine & Civiletto as a legal secretary for over 25 years until her retirement. She was a devout Catholic and very devoted to the Blessed Mother Mary.

Catherine enjoyed playing bingo, going to the casino and was an avid Buffalo Bills fan. Above all, she cherished spending time with her beloved family who will miss her dearly.

Mrs. Paonessa is survived by her children, Deborah (Russell) Licata, Darlene (Brad) Clack and David (Mary) Paonessa; her grandchildren, Brianne (Devonte Carter) Paonessa, David Paonessa, Jackie (Jonathan) Moyer and was predeceased one granddaughter by Michelle McQueen. She is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Josefina Carter and Sebastian James Paonessa; her sister, Anne Marie (late Lawrence) Carella, and her sister-in-law Elsie (late Louis) Paonessa, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by one brother, Edward Scimemi.

Visitation will be on Thursday, March 2 from 3 – 8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY, where funeral services will begin on Friday at 10:00 AM, followed by Catherine's Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM in St. Peter's Church, 620 Center Street, Lewiston, NY. Entombment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.