Mary Jane Baker

Mary Jane Baker, also known as Mary Jane Pileggi and Mary Jane Scienza, who loved to be called “Grandma MJ” and “Mama” by her grandchildren, departed her loving family on November 12, 2023, in Siegenthaler Center in New Hartford, NY.

Mary Jane was born in Ilion, NY, on June 19, 1942, to the late Vincent James and Jennie Pileggi.

Mary Jane was mother to Rick Scienza, James Scienza, and Jay Scienza. She raised her sons with love and devotion in Frankfort, NY. Out of all the lessons she taught her sons over the years, the most important was how to pray.

As a young woman, Mary Jane fluently played the piano, the organ, and even the accordion. Mary Jane was also Drum Major for the Frankfort Starlighters Drum and Bugle Corps.

As a woman of God, Mary Jane was known for many things. Being a member of the church choir, joining and singing with, for 7 years, The Valley Voices for Christ Choir, then becoming their choir director for the next 25 years, was among those that made her the most proud. Spreading the word of God through music and song was her mission and her joy. Mary Jane also directed the “Singing Christmas Tree” - a holiday favorite at The First Assembly of God Church in Utica on Genesee St. and Sangertown Square Mall in New Hartford.

 Mary Jane also enjoyed touring the country, and established a successful bus touring company. As a banking professional, Mary Jane was known by all for her warm personality, professionalism and strict attention to detail.

She is survived by the families of: her brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Lori Pileggi and their children and spouses. Her son and daughter-in-law Rick and MaryJo Scienza. Her son and daughter-in-law James and Lori Scienza; her son and daughter-in-law Jay and Nicole Scienza; her step-sons and their spouses, Derek and April Baker; Sean and Mandi Baker. As well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Her funeral will be held Friday, November 17, 2023, at 11:00AM in the V.J. Iocovozzi Funeral Home, Inc., 203 Second Ave, Frankfort. Interment will be in Oak View Cemetery. Family and friends are welcome and encouraged to call on Friday morning from 10:00 until the time of services. The family invites all to enjoy Hot Chocolate (her favorite drink) that will be served at 10am.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Siegenthaler Center, 4277 Middle Settlement Rd., New Hartford, NY, 13413 can be made in Mary Jane Baker’s name. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

 Expressions of sympathy may be placed on Mary’s online memorial page by going to www.iocovozzifuneralhomes.com