Concetta T Mandella Noponen

Concetta T. (Panebianco) Mandella Noponen, 97, of Worcester, passed away on Thursday, April 8, 2021, at Saint Mary Healthcare in Worcester.  Her husband, Henry Noponen, predeceased her in 2008; and her first husband of forty-two years, George Mandella, predeceased her in 1986.

Concetta is survived by her daughter, Deborah (Mandella) Jackson and her husband Freddie of Ware; twelve grandchildren; nineteen great grandchildren; and a great-great grandchild expected in October; many nieces and nephews.  Concetta was predeceased by two sons, Anthony Mandella in 2020 and Dennis Mandella in 1994.  She was born in Queens, New York, and was the last surviving of six children born to Alfio and Josephine (Lavia) Panebianco.  She lived in Worcester for many years before moving to Florida with Henry, returning to Worcester in 2018.

Concetta worked for many years as a seamstress for David Clark Company as well as Slovin Manufacturing before she retired. She was a member of the Women’s Auxiliary of a Veterans Post in Florida and a member of Calvary Worship Center in Holden, Ma. Known to many as Tina, or the” life of the party;” her unforgettable personality was outfitted with a fun- loving smile that lit up the room. She enjoyed being active, whether she was gardening, cooking or baking, playing Uno with friends and family or playing tambourine at church; she also loved entertaining, but dancing was her favorite activity of all. Her family and her love for the Lord were what she lived for and her strong faith followed her wherever she would go.

As Tina departed us peacefully to be with the Lord, her loving family was right by her side to say their goodbyes.

Calling Hours will be held Sunday, April 18, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester.  Her Funeral Service will be on Monday, April 19, at 11 a.m. in The Calvary Worship Center, 256 Parker Avenue, Holden.  Interment will follow at Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton.

Social Distancing protocols and the use of face masks will be practiced at the funeral home, church, and cemetery.