Petrina Paoletti

It is with profound sadness that we make known the passing of Petrina Ann (Saia) Paoletti of North Conway, NH. She was born in Buffalo, NY on May 5, 1937 to Charles and Frances (DiNatale) Saia. She earned a bachelor's degree in music from Rosary Hill College and went on to teach music at several public schools in Buffalo. She also taught piano to scores of students both in NY and in NH. She was the organist and choir director at the Conway Village Congregational Church where she held the distinct title of Minister of Music for over 30 years. She is survived by her caring husband of 50 years, Leo Paoletti of North Conway, her children, Lawrence Paoletti of Wilmington, MA, Lucille Marvin of New Castle, NH, Lisa Thompson of Berlin, NH, Larina Perry of Newmarket, NH, Leanne Cook of Windsor, VT and thirteen grandchildren. Her surviving siblings include Alphonse Saia of Rochester, NY, Salvatore Saia of Barker, NY, Josephine Saia and Marian Lauricella, both of Buffalo, NY.



Performing, teaching and loving all types of music was Petrina's life-long passion. She relished directing her choir and preparing and performing piano and organ concerts including the popular ‘Festival of Carols' during the Christmas holiday season. She also resurrected and performed the hand-written music of Thomas Murphy husband of Lady Blanche Murphy who resided in Bartlett, NH in the late 1800s.



More than anything Petrina loved her family. She shared her passion for music with all of them. There was not a family gathering without piano or organ playing with Leo and the children and grandchildren gathered around singing and little ones dancing. She taught all of her grandchildren piano and supported all of their interests from music to sports. She was their sunshine and their inspiration.



Calling hours will be Wednesday December 23rd from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Furber and White Funeral Home in North Conway, followed by a funeral service at 7 pm at the Conway Village Cong