Lucia Carmella Benz

Lucia Carmella Benz (nee Bonanno) went to Jesus on the evening of September 27, 2025, after a 99 years of being surrounded by and taking care of her family and friends. She had many angels there to greet her, including her mother who she lost at 12 years old, her father, sisters (Sadie and Angie), brother (Sam), granddaughter (Jenna), and her devoted husband of almost 70 years (John) who she could not wait to dance with again to Frank Sinatra and "Near You" in heaven. They were all there to welcome her with open arms.

Lucia was born to Leonarda Leonardi and Rosario Bonanno on August 11, 1926 in Manhattan. Lucia resided in the city before moving to Blauvelt where she built her beautiful, spiritual, and inspirational life with her husband since 1952. She was an active parishioner of St. Catharine's Church in Blauvelt where she cooked for the priests for 10 years. Lucia was best known for Sunday dinners where anyone could walk through her door and be fed. No matter how many people showed up, there was plenty of food for all (with leftovers).

She is survived by her loving and dedicated children, Barbara Mencher (Seth), Lisa Graff (Charles), John Benz (Kathleen) and Anthony Benz (Lara); her grandchildren who lovingly knew her as 'Nana,' Lauren Calcaterra (Justin), Matthew Mencher (Moira), Stephanie Gannon (James), Christina Quinn (John), Charles Graff, Nicholas Benz (Cassie), Jessica Benz, and Andrew Benz; her great grandchildren who called her 'Nonni,' Benjamin, Caitlin, James, Kaylee, Lucas, Liam, Jaxon, Miles, Lily, and Charlie; and countless nieces, nephews and friends all of whom were welcomed in as one of her own.

A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, October 4 at 10am, at St. Catharine's Church in Blauvelt, with burial to follow at St. Catherine's Cemetery. Visiting hours will be Friday, October 3, from 4-7 at Moritz Funeral home in Tappan, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to United Hospice.

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