Rosalie Finocchario

Rosalie Finocchario, 72, of East Peoria, IL died on September 23, 2025, in Peoria, IL

She was born on December 19, 1952, to Angelo Sr. and Elizabeth Finacchario in Livonia, New York. She was preceded in death by her son Jason Gardner, her parents, and her sister and brother-in-law, Terry and Frank Ryan.

Surviving her are: Her husband, Randy Watkins, who was her devoted caretaker in her long battle with cancer; her sister Betsy (Royce) Flickner of Lakeville NY; her brothers Chuck (Joelle) Finacchario of Rochester NY, Richard (Cathy) Finocchario of Avon NY, Angelo (Sue) Finocchario of Geneseo NY, Joseph (Gloria) Finocchiaro of Livonia NY, and Louis Finocchario of Arizona; cousins; nieces; nephews; and many friends.

Rose worked on a family farm, in coal mines, in brass foundries, and as a tavern owner in Grayville IL. After moving to Peoria, she became a proud member of the Laborers International Union, Local 165, working in highway construction.

Rose had a unique talent for drawing people to her with a smile that lit up the room – always ready for fun and adventure. She was a loyal friend – always there to help. We will miss her sorely, but we take comfort in knowing that she is with her son Jason.

There will be a celebration of life at the American Legion Harrison-Lee Post 0283 at 3850 Federal Road in Livonia, NY 14487 on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. There also will be a celebration of life at Carrigan's Pub at 5506 N Main St in East Peoria, IL from 1:00 – 3:30pm on Saturday, November 8, 2025.