Candace F. Antonelli, age 81, of Syracuse, New York, passed away peacefully Saturday, December 13, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and devotion to her family and friends. Born October 31, 1944, in Syracuse to the late Frances and Regina Theobald, Candace lived a life full of care, hard work, and joy.

Candace spent much of her career in the restaurant and bar industry, where her warmth and lively spirit touched countless lives. In the last 20 years, she dedicated herself to caring for the elderly, offering compassion and companionship to those in need. Her selflessness and kindness were hallmarks of her character.

She cherished simple pleasures—sitting outside on her porch, enjoying the fresh air, and most of all, cheering on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren at their sporting events. Her voice of encouragement will forever echo in the hearts of those she supported from the sidelines. Candace was also blessed with the lifelong friendship of Trudy Corbett, who stood by her through every chapter of life.

Candace is survived by her beloved children, Denise Tina Greenlee and partner, Randy Heidleback, Patty Antonelli Puckett and husband, Chad, Paula Jo Antonelli and partner, Richard Sloan, and Paul Joseph Antonelli Jr.; grandchildren, Christina and Kyle Horne and children; Chelsea and Wes Stevens and children; Brooke M. Kelley and children; Brandon and Erika Kelley; Taylor and Dom Hill and children; Kevin and Sarah Allen; Kayla and Jamal Lewis and children; Sierra Humphrey and partner Andrew Mayo and children; Tyler and Payton Humphrey and children; Haile and James Sasser and children; Devin P. Antonelli; Dalton P. Antonelli; extended granddaughter, Madline Pendelton; and step-granddaughters, Erica and husband, Eric Slaw and children, and Monica and husband, Eddie Holloway and children.

In total, Candace was blessed with four children, twelve grandchildren, two step-granddaughters, one extended granddaughter, and twenty-two great-grandchildren that she loved and adored each of them deeply—they were the sunshine in her life

Candace will be remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend. Her love was boundless, her laughter contagious, and her presence a gift to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

We love you so much, Mom!