ONEONTA – Harriet E. Cipriani, 103, passed away December 16, 2018 at Robinson Terrace, Stamford.

She was born August 20, 1915 in Queens, NY, the daughter of Floyd and Emily (Gaethke) Stickels.

Harriet served her country during World War II as a bookkeeper at Brewster's Aeronautical Defense Plant in Long Island City, NY.

On February 10, 1945 she married Alfred B. Cipriani in Flushing, NY. He predeceased her on October 14, 1987.

Harriet and her husband moved to Washington, D.C. in 1955 where she became involved in politics. She became Deputy Vice Chairman and Director of Women's Activities at the Democratic National Committee.  She traveled throughout the United States on speaking engagements, encouraging women to run for public office.  She was always so pleased to see more women elected to Congress.  Harriet was a delegate to five Democratic National Conventions, 1960-1976.

In 1978, she and Alfred moved to Oneonta to be near her family. She made many good friends through her affiliation with the First United Methodist Church and her volunteer activities in the A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital Auxiliary.

Harriet is survived by two nephews, Carl Brenn and wife, Nancy and James Brenn and wife, Ellen.

She was predeceased by her two sisters, Helen Victor and Minerva Perron; her niece, Carol DuMond and her very special niece and namesake, Harriet E. Mattice.

At Harriet's request, she will be cremated and there will be no services.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make a contribution to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements are by Oneonta's only family-owned funeral home, Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono at 51 Dietz Street; online condolences may be made at, www.lhpfuneralhome.com