Obituary of Lucille A. Mantella

Lucille A. Mantella, 96, of Grand Rapids MI, formerly of Cortland NY, passed away on June 11, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. Born to Antonio and Libra Fantacone Maniccia in Cortland NY on August 10, 1927, Lucille's life revolved around family and friends, a faith-based generosity of spirit, and her seventy-year marriage to Rocco J. Mantella, also of Cortland NY, who died in 2017. An active member of Saint Anthony Padua Church, and staunch in her beliefs, Lucille was the spiritual rock in her household, with a quiet faith that could shake the rafters. In any necessary circumstance she could become a life coach, cheerleader, defender, and/or an advocate for her Rocco and their four children–Roxanne, Tino, Philomena, and Tony–as well as their eleven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. Lucille delighted in time with those in her inner circle, never met a stranger she didn't like, found enjoyment in gardening and golf, and truly appreciated her years as a realtor with Yaman RE. She lived an active independent life every one of her 96 years. A funeral mass will be held, Monday, June 24, 2024, 10:30 AM at St. Anthony Padua Church, 50 Pomeroy St, Cortland, NY 13045. Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Cortland. Wright-Beard Funeral Home, Inc. 9 Lincoln Ave., Cortland is assisting the family with arrangements. To offer condolences online visit www.wright-beard.com. Donations in Lucille's honor are welcome to the Rocky and Lucille Mantella First Generation Endowed Scholarship at Grand Valley State University where she supported her daughter in the Presidency. You can give to the scholarship by copying this link into your web browser: http://www.gvsu.edu/giving/mantellascholarship