Pamala V. Decillis

Pamala V. Decillis, of Watertown, NY, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her loving family and under the care of Hospice of Jefferson County. 

She was born on September 4, 1953, to Glenn and Barbara (Pellicella) Goodfriend. Pamala graduated from General Brown High School and married Lyle J. Decillis on March 10, 1973, at the Immaculate Conception Church in Brownville. She began her career as a nurse’s aide at Samaritan Keep Nursing Home before transitioning to become a dedicated teacher’s aide, working with special needs children at BOCES, Watertown City School District, and Sackets Harbor Central School District until her retirement due to disability. Pamala was known for her passion for helping others, especially special needs children, and her boundless compassion touched many lives. 

She was also a devoted volunteer for the Tri-Village Baseball League in Black River, where she ran the concession stand since 2016. Pamala enjoyed spending summers at the cottage in Three Mile Bay and was a "professional shopper". 

She is survived by her beloved husband, Lyle J. Decillis, her children John and Marsha Decillis of Malone, New York, Corey and Joelle Decillis of Black River, New York, and Stephanie Decillis of Black River, New York, her grandchildren, Lincoln and Ellen Sylvester, Macy and Taylor Collins, Kylee and Neil Raville, Aiden, Garret, Kaya Decillis, Corey Parsons, Reid and Jessica Parsons, Hunter Birchenough, and Desmond Parsons, three great grandchildren Camreigh and Carter Collins and Emma Raville;  a sister, Jean Goodfriend, Sackets Harbor, NY; brother and sister in law, Glenn "Chuck" and Mila Goodfriend, Watertown, NY; as well as three grandchildren she has helped raise, Daevon Bechaz, Shaelynn Parsons and Cooper Parsons;  and her three cherished dogs, Maggie, Rose, and Saylor, and cat Dolly. 

Calling hours will be held on Friday, March 8th, at the Hart and Bruce Funeral Home from 3 to 6 p.m. with prayer service following. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County or to the SPCA. 

Online condolences may be left at hartandbrucefh.com.

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