Leon Brian Mancinelli

Leon Brian Mancinelli, 79, of Little River, SC, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, August 15th, 2025.

Brian was born on July 26th, 1946, in New Haven, CT. After Brian graduated from Hamden High School in 1964, he served four years in the Air Force, spending the majority of his service in Schema, Alaska, working in radio. Following in his father's footsteps, his career in radio would continue after the conclusion of his service. Brian had a long career in voice-over acting. He even appeared on screen for many commercials and programs on television from the 1980s through the early 2000s. His ties to radio and music allowed Brian unique opportunities, most notably meeting The Beatles at the Plaza Hotel Reception in New York City ahead of their famous appearance on the Ed Sullivan show.

Brian was a beloved son, brother, husband, and father, who touched the lives of many with his playful outlook on life. His former wife of 22 years, Joanna, remembers Brian as a loving husband and father who enjoyed travel and adventures. The two traveled to Aspen, CO and various countries in Europe often, and maintained a friendship following their divorce. Friends describe Brian as "the life of the party," and someone who made a point to bring an essence of light to any situation. Considered a prankster in his earlier years, Brian is best known for attempting to put his high school up for sale shortly before graduation. He was voted "most school spirit" his senior year of high school, earning a photo in the yearbook alongside the cheerleading squad. As a father, Brian continued this reputation as a fierce supporter of his daughter's many endeavors. From horseback riding to optometry school, he was Lauren's biggest cheerleader at every event and graduation. She feels blessed to have inherited his stage presence, and to have shared his love of Formula One and classic cars. Memories of Limerock Park visits and the Concours d'Elegance in Greenwich, CT are vivid reminders of Brian's depth of knowledge and passion for all things automotive.

In retirement, Brian made himself an invaluable member of several local tennis groups in the Myrtle Beach community. He settled into his found family at the Kingston Plantation Tennis Club, where he helped organize games and events, even participating in area tournaments with other local clubs. In his later years, tennis and spending time on the water brought Brian immense joy. Brian's outgoing personality and zest for life quickly cemented his place in this group of friends, whom he cherished until his final days. His family is endlessly grateful for their support.

Brian is survived by his daughter, Lauren Mancinelli, of Washington, DC; his brother, Kenneth Mancinelli, of Wolcott, CT; and his sister, JoAnn Curtin (Mancinelli), of Branford, CT. He is predeceased by both parents, Dorothy and Leone Mancinelli, both of Hamden, CT.

His friends at the Kingston Plantation Tennis Club are arranging a local "Celebration of Life" in South Carolina on Sunday, August 24th. For details, please contact Mike Jackson.

Family will host a memorial in Connecticut in the fall. Details to follow. For information, please contact his siblings or daughter.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Brian's memory are invited to do so in a way meaningful to their connection with the deceased. Please consider supporting local youth tennis groups or programs for the arts, so that others may have the resources and opportunities to pursue what inspires them.