Virginia Rose Zonna Colonna lived a beautiful full life until the age of 99 (+ one day). She passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 1, 2017 surrounded by the love of her family. She was born in Erie, on March 31, 1918, the daughter of the late Antonio and Mary Baliste Zonna.

Virginia was a past member of St. Paul’s RC Church. She was a proud homemaker and excellent cook. Five generations of family and friends were fortunate to be showered with her love and Italian cuisine. From homemade spaghetti and meatballs to delicious pizzas and apple pies, Virginia was her happiest cooking for loved ones and feeding them until their bellies were full.

Virginia was a devoted and loving daughter, mother, wife, sister, aunt, grandmother and friend to many. She taught us kindness, unconditional love, how to be impeccably clean and the importance of having a sense of humor. Virginia was a woman of strength and grace. She will always be the heart and soul of our family. We are thankful we had the amazing opportunity to spend so many quality years with her. After 99 years of giving whole-heartedly, she earned her eternal peace and we hope heaven greeted her with the same love she showed to us throughout her lifetime.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Clement A. Colonna; her daughter, Leah Mae Pagliari; her son-in-laws, Joseph Pagliari and Philip Falbo; her sister, Anna Colonna; and her brother Pete Zonna.

Virginia is survived by four generations of family, her daughter, Judy A. Falbo, of Erie; her son David C. Colonna and his wife Rose, of Erie; her six grandchildren, Debbie (Joe) Deimel, Joe Pagliari Jr., Kim (Jim) Achille, Philip (Sarah) Falbo Jr., Jessica and Anthony Colonna; thirteen great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. A special thank you to Dr. Joseph Deimel for the love and care of his grandmother-in-law.

Friends may call at the Russell C. Schmidt & Son Funeral Home, Inc. 5000 Wattsburg Rd. Erie, PA 16509, on Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. and are invited to a prayer service there on Wednesday morning at 9:15 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Sacred Heart Food Pantry – 816 West 26th St. Erie, PA 16508.

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