Obituary of Rosalie Pullara

Rosalie "Roz" Pullara

February 19, 1939 - August 9, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of this beautiful and talented woman, our mother Rosalie "Roz" Pullara on August 9, at age 86. 

Roz grew up in Rochester NY, graduated from Benjamin Franklin High School, and received a Bachelor’s degree in Performing Arts from SUNY Geneseo and her Master’s degree in Education from SUNY Brockport. She taught musical theatre and performing arts in the Rochester City School District for 38 years. 

As a young woman, Roz was influenced by the vocal styles of Rosemary Clooney, Judy Garland, Morgana King and Ella Fitzgerald.  Back in the early 1960s she sang in Rochester area nightclubs while pursuing her career in teaching and theatre. She has also recorded several of her original compositions, accompanying herself on piano and playing alongside her partner, Barbara Adams in their duo, Paradox.

Roz's passion for the arts extended into painting, drawing, and literary works.  She is the author of two published novels, Someday You'll Understand and Rocco.

In addition to her writing, Roz (Mima) loved spending time with her grandson, Jacey, often picking him up from school and attending his basketball games. She was a proud Grandma.

Roz is predeceased by her former husband, Salvatore Frank Pullara; parents Angelo and Lucy (Piccararo) Scicglone.

Roz is survived by her partner, Barbara A. Adams, daughters, Lisbeth Pullara-Goossen (Evan Dobbins), Jen Pullara Blake (Ben Tucker IV), grandchildren Jacey Blake, Ellise Blake, Ben Tucker V and Evangeline Tucker, stepchildren Rebecca Short (Greg) and Luke Adams (Jessica) and step-grandchildren Griffin and Emelia Short as well as many beloved nieces, nephews and lifelong friends.

Calling hours will be held on Monday August 18th at Falvo Funeral Home in Webster NY from 4-6pm, with a service honoring her memory immediately following.