Obituary of Della M. A. Pike

Syracuse – Della M. A. Pike, 65, passed away Thursday, July 2, 2015, at her daughter's home under the care of her family and hospice. Arrangements are entrusted to the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Della was born on September 3, 1949 in Massena, daughter of the late Clarington and Marion (Donnelly) Sawyer. She graduated from Norwood-Norfolk High School and on February 11, 1967, married Francis P. Pike at St. Raymond Church in Raymondville. They shared a devoted union for 31 years until his passing on January 2, 1999. She helped support their family, using her skills as a cook at Tardelli's Restaurant in Potsdam and at Violi's Restaurant in Massena. At her leisure, Della enjoyed crocheting, making Christmas ornaments and playing solitaire. Della fulfilled her role as wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother; her strong spirit and kind soul will remain in their memories. Della is survived by her four daughters: Becky Ryan of Plattsburg, Tammy and Bobby Farnsworth of Potsdam, Peggy and Howard Baxter of Syracuse and Penny Mattice of Snow Hill, NC. Three siblings: Clarington Sawyer of Maryland, Wynona Vancor of Massena, and Leo Sawyer of Hannawa Falls, 13 grandchildren, five great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two sisters, Helen and Minnie. Visitation will be Monday from 4 to 7pm at the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Della's funeral service will be Tuesday at 1pm at the funeral home with Fr. Fish officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Dickinson Center. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in Della's honor, please consider donations to your local hospice. Memories and condolences can be shared with her family at www.hammillfh.com.