Tiffany Sarah Varlaro

In Loving Memory 

ILION - Our cherished Tiffany Sarah Varlaro, age 49, passed away peacefully but unexpectedly on January 12th, 2026, at her home in Ilion, New York.

Born on August 2nd, 1976, in Herkimer, New York, Tiffany was the beloved daughter of Alfonso J. and Deborah “Debbie” J. (Valentine) Varlaro. She was a 1994 graduate of Herkimer High School and earned her Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science from the University of Albany, SUNY, in 1998.

Tiffany devoted her professional life to supporting and uplifting students. She touched countless lives through her work in higher education, beginning as Director of Residence Life at Herkimer County Community College. She later served as Assistant Director of Residence Life at Cazenovia College, Assistant Dean for Residence Life and Conduct, and Dean of Students at Cazenovia College. Most recently, she was the Student Life Director at Pratt Munson. To many students, Tiffany was far more than an administrator, she was a mentor, advocate and chosen family.

She had a deep love for live music and sports. Tiffany was a devoted fan of Syracuse University football as a season ticket holder. She often invited friends and family to join her at games. She cheered passionately for the Buffalo Bills, and held a lifelong love for the San Francisco 49ers, Joe Montana and the New York Yankees. She also held a special place in her heart for the New York Giants, having worked at their training camp for several summers. A true sports enthusiast, Tiffany could quote facts, statistics and players from countless teams with ease.

Tiffany loved to travel and was always ready for the next road trip in her favorite car. Her destination of choice was Walt Disney World where she went several times through the years with family and friends, fostering countless memories with the people she loved. She recently fulfilled her lifetime dream of visiting France and seeing the beaches of Normandy, combining her love of travel with her passion for history.

Beloved by her students, many of whom affectionately called her Mom, she was ever present in their lives. She spent countless hours listening, advising, and caring for them. She would drive students to and from airports, appointments, grocery stores, wherever they needed to go. She made sure they had what they needed to succeed. Whether that was food, a joke, a new roommate, books or a new shower curtain. She made certain they had it. She celebrated their accomplishments wholeheartedly and remained a constant presence in their lives long after graduation, often attending their weddings and baby showers years later.

Tiffany was selfless, genuine, and had a smile that could light up a room. Her cackle could be heard far and wide, and her heart was as big as the world around her. She had a rare gift for making people feel at ease and valued. Her empathy knew no bounds. She lived by the mantra, “There are no strangers here, only friends you haven’t met yet.” To know Tiffany was truly to love her

She is survived by her parents, Alfonso and Debbie Varlaro of Herkimer, her brother AJ Varlaro of Sarasota, FL, her nephew AJ Varlaro of Marcellus, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and a multitude of friends.

She is predeceased by her grandparents Rosemarie and Joe Varlaro and Edward and Bernice Valentine.

Calling hours will be Saturday, January 24th ,2026, from 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM at The Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home 4309 Acme Road, Ilion, New York (Town of Frankfort), concluding with a prayer service. Spring interment will be alongside her family in Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer.

The family would like to thank the Ilion Police Department, Ilion Fire Department, Herkimer Police Department, and Herkimer County Coroner Kevin Enea for their professionalism and care in responding.

Tiffany’s obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website by visiting www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.