Roma M Barbera

SCOTIA- Roma M. Barbera, 82, passed away suddenly on Sunday December 22, 2024 at home.

Born in Schenectady she graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School in 1960 and was the daughter of the late Frank and Mary (Occhino) Barbera.

Roma lived life on her terms, true to her passions and values, always unapologetically authentic in everything she did. In a prewritten epitaph, Roma concluded her heartfelt letter with a quote from Rod Stewart, “when I flyaway, I’ll be hoping I served you well.” Roma was a radiant soul who nurtured everyone in her life with an open heart and a warm, generous spirit. Her kindness was without limit, whether through thoughtful advice, a comforting hug, or a meal prepared with love. The kitchen was her sacred space, working absolute magic with the simplest ingredients. Cooking for others was her way of showing love, her quiet act of care. Roma was a rare kind, a person whose heart seemed to stretch endlessly for others. To many she was not just a friend but a lifeline- someone who understood what it meant to be there for others when no one else would.

May she rest in peace, dancing forever to the music of the universe, surrounded by the love she so freely shared.

She is survived by her daughter Lisa (Alex) Pijanowski, son David (Lisa) Pidgeon; grandchildren Elana, Allison, Nicholas, and Gianna. She is also survived by several beloved cousins, nieces, nephews and her former husband Ralph Pidgeon.

Funeral services will be held Saturday December 28, 2024 at 12 noon at the DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home 5216 Western Turnpike, Guilderland. Relatives and friends are invited and may also visit with Roma’s family prior to the service from 9am to 11:45 am. Interment will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Schenectady.