Millie Eisland, at the age of 81, departed this life at the Wynn Hospital on Friday, February 6, 2026 after a long courageous battle with cancer.

She was born in Utica, New York, the daughter of the late Thomas and Angela (Grieco) Blando. She was educated in New Hartford Central Schools. Millie furthered her education at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. Millie worked and co-owned North Motor Equipment, with her brother, Tom Blando, for many years as well as Utica Carting Company with her cousin, Paul Blando. She helped build and operate Marcy Excavation Company and was featured in State Magazine which was a huge accomplishment for a woman in that industry.

Millie was one that did not sit idly and at age 74 took a position with the Department of Social Services and worked in child support, where countless friends will sadly miss her. Millie grew up in a Sicilian Catholic family, and later converted to the Jewish faith.

At one time, she was President of Temple Emanu-El, President of the Sisterhood, Religious School Secretary, and she organized numerous highly successful rummage sales. With her acute business savvy, she operated the Temple Judaica Shop. She was the Matriarch of the Blando family where Millie believed everyone was entitled to HER opinion.

She is survived by her sisters Ann Pinna (John), Paula Schlegel (Marty), and brother, Tom Blando (Jan);  Millie's sons, Marc Eisland,  and his wife, Michele, Seth Eisland and his fiancé, Rebecca; grandchildren, Angela Lucia, Rylynn, Adreeana, Derick, Michael Anthony, Michael Paul, Alina, Troy, Jake, Tyler, and her beloved great grandchildren, Milo, Baby Michael, Princess YahYah, Rowan, Giovanni and Avery. She was predeceased by her grandson Rooster Eisland.

Millie was a mother, father, grandmother, sister, consigliere, and best friend.

We were raised by a woman who deserved far more than life ever gave her and we carry that deep in our hearts.

Services will be held on Thursday  February 12, 2026 at 11a.m.  at Temple Emanu-El,   2710 Genesee Street Utica,NY, where Rabbi Peter Schaktman will officiate. There will be a time to greet the family from 10 a.m.- 11 a.m  at the Temple prior to the service.

Arrangements are under the guidance of John L Matt Funeral Home, Chadwicks, NY. To send an online greeting go to: www.johnlmattfuneralhome.com