Regina Mary (Gaeta) Lewis

Regina Mary (Gaeta) Lewis, age 76, of Utica, passed away on Friday, May 2, 2025, at The Abraham House in Utica with her loving family by her side.

She was born in Utica on December 8, 1948. She was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Arrigo) Gaeta. She graduated from T.R. Proctor High School and was affectionately known by her family and friends as Reg, Reggie, and Gramma Reg. In 1998, she married David T. Lewis, sharing a blessed and devoted union of 27 years.

Regina was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She adored her grandchildren and cherished a special bond with each of them. Regina took great pride in her home, always making it warm and welcoming for all who visited. A wonderful cook, she loved to entertain, hosting countless parties and holiday feasts for her family. She was especially known for preparing her family’s favorite recipes, including cherished Sunday pasta dinners. One of her greatest traditions was baking Christmas cookies with her granddaughters, delivering heaping trays of them to friends and family who eagerly awaited her delicious holiday treats.

Regina was a lifelong member of St. Anthony/St. Agnes Church and a proud member of The Assumption Society, honoring a treasured Arrigo/Gaeta family tradition.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Dave; her daughter and son-in-law, Maryellen and Matthew Stoquert; her sons, Richard L. (Dicky) Diliberto and Nicholas M. (Nick) Diliberto; and her stepson, David T. Lewis, Jr. She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Jordan A. Stoquert, Kamdyn N. Stoquert, Richard J. (R.J.) Diliberto, and Joseph L. (Joey) Diliberto, as well as their mother, Michele T. Diliberto. Regina also leaves many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, with special acknowledgement to Gail A. Diesfeld and her children, Erica, Evan, and Elise Diesfeld; David & Jackie Chirillo; and Vita Bridenbecker, with whom she shared a special bond. She also leaves behind her dearest friends: Lois Vergot, Alice Jury, and lifelong friend Marie Pilla.

Regina was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Mary (Arrigo) Gaeta; all her siblings: Carmella & Louis (“Red”) Chirillo, Joseph & Evelyn Gaeta, Rosaline & Vito (“Parky”) LoParco, Agnes & Vaughn (“Bud”) Combs, and Frank Gaeta; and her nephew, Joseph N. Gaeta.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 12 Noon in St. Anthony/St. Agnes Church, Utica. The family will greet all visitors at the conclusion of the Mass in church. Private interment will follow in St. Agnes Cemetery.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the entire staff at The Abraham House in Utica, who brought immense peace, comfort, and compassion to Regina and her family throughout her stay. It became a true home away from home and the staff became family to them. Special gratitude goes to the staff of Hospice and Palliative Care, especially Irene, who had a unique bond with Regina, having also cared for her mother Mary. Deep thanks also to Deacon William “Bill” Dischiavo for his continued comfort and spiritual guidance to Regina and her family through the years.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Regina may be made to the Abraham House. Envelopes will be available at the services. 

Funeral arrangements under the guidance of Scala, Roefaro & Karboski Funeral Home, 1122 Culver Ave., Utica.