Paul P. Messina

Niskayuna - Paul Peter Messina, 95, of Niskayuna, NY, and formerly of Loudonville, NY passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Born on June 20, 1930, in Buffalo, Paul was the son of the late Philip and Antonia (Giordano) Messina. He was the beloved husband of the late Jacquelyn J. (Crinzi) Messina. High school sweethearts, Paul and Jackie shared nearly 50 years of devoted marriage prior to her passing in 2004.

Paul served his country honorably in the United States Air Force and carried his deep sense of duty and commitment into all aspects of his life. In 1967, Paul and Jackie moved to Loudonville, where they resided until 1980. During that time, Paul worked as the manager for Dearstyne Bros. Tobacco Inc. in Menands, a role he cherished and where he happily offered summer employment to the children of Ross Court.

In 1980, the couple relocated to Westchester County, where Paul served as Senior Vice President at Culbro Corporation. In 1994, they returned to the Capital Region to be closer to their children, grandchildren, and growing family.

A devout Catholic, Paul had a deep love for the Church and lived his faith through generosity and service. He gave to many charities and causes close to his heart. Known for his warm spirit and quick wit, Paul was the life of every gathering. He loved hosting holidays, spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and was famous among family and friends for his Christmas cookies — which he baked and gifted each year with love.

Paul took great pride in caring for his home, especially his lawn, and enjoyed playing tennis and later pickleball. A proud snowbird, he spent many joyful winters at his home in Naples, Florida. He also had an inexplicable but enduring fondness for his dust buster, which he used with enthusiasm.

In addition to his beloved wife, Jackie, Paul was predeceased by his four brothers and three sisters.

He is survived by his three children: Diane Degener (John), Paula Messina, and Philip Messina (Jude); eight grandchildren: Brittni Marcucci, Nicole McNulty-DeMeo, Alexander Messina, Eric Messina, Brooke Marcucci, Anthony McNulty, Jake Messina, and Jess Messina; and nine great-grandchildren: Aurora Marcucci-Jones, Cole McNulty, Enzo Messina, Stella Messina, Olivia Messina, Ariella Marcucci- Fernandez, Carmelo Marcucci-Fernandez, Cody McNulty, and Luca Messina.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday, July 21, 2025, from 4 to 7 PM at The Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, 149 Old Loudon Road, Latham. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 10:30 AM at St. Pius X Church in Loudonville with Rev. James Walsh officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at St. Agnes Cemetery in Menands.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paul's memory to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (www.t2t.org).

To express condolences or for more information, please visit: www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com.