Esther (Pasqua) Paonessa, 89, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 22, 2023 at her residence. Born in Niagara Falls, she was the daughter of the late Matteo and Rose (Previte) Spameni, and the loving wife of Michael J. Paonessa, Sr., whom she married on September 13, 1958 in St. Joseph Church.

Esther was a proud graduate of Niagara Falls High School. Following her passion, she obtained her beautician's license and worked alongside her beloved sisters, Petrina and Antonette, at Capri Beauty Salon on 19th Street in Niagara Falls. Later, she transitioned to working out of her home, where she continued to share her talents with the world for many years. Esther left an indelible mark on the lives of the countless customers she served, holding each and every one of them as a close friend dear to her heart. What they loved most about her was her kindness, sincerity, generosity, and most of all, not changing her prices for over twenty years.

A familiar face within the community, Esther was widely known in Niagara Falls for her warm and vibrant personality. Her love for the game of bocce was not just a pastime; it transformed her into an excellent player and an original member of the Niagara Falls Women's Bocce League. Beyond the bocce court, Esther was also a Gin Rummy aficionado, who had a knack for not letting her opponents sleep until she beat them to her heart's content. Active in the Cristoforo Colombo Society and Club Italia, she formed strong, lifelong bonds with fellow members. She was an unforgettable people person, taking the time to talk to absolutely everyone, striving to brighten their day one story at a time. Esther's punctuality was legendary, however, as she was fashionably late to just about everything. But no matter the occasion, her tardiness was forgiven by those who knew her best, as they understood that her infectious warmth and kindness were always well worth the wait.

Those closest to Esther knew that she held a PhD in common sense, and her practical wisdom endeared her to those seeking her counsel. Her guidance was not flashy or ostentatious; it was quiet strength that provided stability in complex, turbulent times, distilled into straightforward, actionable advice that was a testament to a lifetime of learning, a reflection of her understanding of the world, and her rich character. Esther's advice was a beacon to friends and family alike, who were fortunate enough to experience both her warmth and wisdom.

Most importantly, Esther cherished the time she spent with her family, and deeply loved each of her children equally - with left and right hooks. But unfortunately, God was short an angel, and she was next on the list.

Sleep with the angels, Esther. We will all love you and miss you forever.

Esther is survived by three children, Phyllis Paonessa, Dominick Paonessa, and Matthew Paonessa; her grandchildren, Nico, Evan, Jude, Antoinette, Michael Jr., Nicholas and Matthew Jr.; three great-grandchildren Dominic, Maria and Michael IV; her sister-in-law, Mary (late Frank) Taibi; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by one son, Michael Paonessa Jr. and her siblings, Peter (Patricia) Spameni, Petrina (late Dominic F.) Notarianni and Antonette 'Toni' (late Joseph) Licata.

Visitation will be Thursday, January 4 from 9:30 – 11:15 AM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY, where funeral services will begin at 11:15 AM, followed by Esther's Mass of Christian Burial at 12 Noon in St. Joseph Church, 1413 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY. Interment in St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorial offerings may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital, stjude.org. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.