Violet Lee (Sears) Paoli

Lee Paoli, 85, of Newark, Delaware passed away in the comfort of her home on Friday, June 28, 2019.

Lee was born in Beckley, West Virginia on March 1, 1934, daughter of the late Haze and Bessie (Hill) Sears.  A diligent, hard working person, she was the owner and operator of Dom’s Deli in New Castle for 40 years.  During her career, she established a reputation for quality food and service, which led to a loyal following and her endearment to her many customers.  In her leisure time, Lee enjoyed dancing with her husband, cooking for her family, and trying her luck at the Delaware Park slots.  

Her beloved husband of 57 years, Dominick A. Paoli Sr., passed away on January 2, 2009.  Sadly, Lee was also predeceased by her grandson, Daniel Paoli; her son-in-law, James Jannuzzio Sr.

A loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Lee is survived by her children, Joseph Paoli (Orlagh Mackey), Dominick Paoli Jr. (Marcy Bukay), Nancy Jannuzzio; her grandchildren, David Vickers (Jessica), Dominick Paoli III (Dar), Ashley Paoli (Eric), Jimmy Jannuzzio Jr., Nicholas Paoli (Amelia), Dante Jannuzzio; her great grandchildren, Brynna and Liam.  In addition, she is survived by her sisters-in-law, Catherine Sparco, Mary Ann Catalina (Sonny), Rosemary McBride (Benny), Dolly, Dorie and Ann Paoli; her brothers-in-law, Joseph Paoli (Nikki), Anthony Paoli (Gini); many nieces, nephews and their families.

Lee was also predeceased by her brothers, Charles, Wint and Lacey ; her sisters, Mary, Virginia, Mae, Ann; her parents-in-law, Giuseppe and Esther Paoli; her brothers-in-law, Alfred, Eugene and Nello Paoli, Anthony Sparco. 

The family would like to thank the staff of Vitas Hospice for the compassion and care given to Lee.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Pike Creek on Monday, July 1 from 4:00-7:00PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. John the Beloved Church, 907 Milltown Road on Tuesday, July 2 at 10:00AM, immediately followed by entombment in Cathedral Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Lee may be made to the Rheumatology Research Foundation, 2200 Lake Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30319 (https://www.rheumresearch.org).

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