Evy Lynn Damsky

Evy Lynn Damsky, 89, of New Hartford, NY, passed away peacefully on December 23rd, surrounded by family. She was born in Utica, NY, on March 7, 1936, to the late Janet and Jacob Wineburgh, and grew up alongside her beloved sister, the late Birdye Wolfe (Richard Wolfe).

Evy graduated from Utica Free Academy before attending The Ohio State University and completing her studies at Syracuse University. In 1956, she married her childhood sweetheart, Michael Damsky. They were married for 63 years until his death in 2020. Michael’s successes in local politics and athletics were made possible by Evy’s unwavering support; she was forever his number one fan.

Together, Evy and Michael raised three children: Beth Damsky (Joanne Peskowitz) of Cambridge, MA; Wendy Sanders (Brian Sanders) of New Hartford, NY; and Scott Damsky (Wendy Damsky) of Florida and Ohio. Evy took special joy in her four grandchildren, Jacob Dar (Ophira Dar) of Cleveland, OH; Lanika Sanders (Christian Page) of Michigan; Anna Damsky of Florida; and Gabriel Damsky of Cambridge, MA.

She loved her family deeply, and many will remember her for her constant reminders to drive carefully and bundle up. Her tough love pushed her children towards success in their personal and professional lives.

Evy had impeccable style. She took great pride in her appearance and believed in the power of a good outfit to build confidence in others as well. She leveraged her fashion sense in her career by working as a sales associate at Casual Corner, where she offered every customer thoughtful style recommendations and one-on-one attention.

Evy especially loved dressing her grandchildren in stylish—often matching—outfits. Her love of children extended into her work as an elementary school teacher in the Utica school system. She also volunteered at St. Luke’s Hospital gift shop, where she charmed visitors with her chatty demeanor and quick smile.

Evy loved art and was a talented painter. She was also a surprisingly accomplished ping-pong player, defeating multiple members of her athletic family during basement matches at her house and backyard matches at the family camp in Old Forge, NY. Evy cherished time spent in the Adirondacks with her family, where she and Michael spent long summer days with Birdye and her family. She and Michael also traveled extensively together and cultivated a dynamic social life; Evy was always the life of the party. She also ran regularly and was an avid exerciser. Evy raised many small dogs over the years and is survived by her sweet little Daisy. Evy was a dedicated member of the local Jewish community and a lifetime member of Temple Beth El.

Damsky’s Family has entrusted their care to Scott J. Pizer, Jacobson Pizer Funeral Chapel. 

Evy's funeral will be held on Friday, December 26, 2025 at 10:30am at the Bottini Funeral Home, 120 W. Embargo St., Rome; followed by a shiva from 2pm - 4pm at the home of Wendy Sanders, 7 Bolton Rd., New Hartford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Beth El or the Jewish Community Center of Utica.

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