Mary A. Menditto

Mary A. (Nicolia) Menditto died on May 8, 2022, at home in Erie. She was 93. Mary A. Nicolia was born in Ceccano, Italy, on October 29, 1928 to Louis and Frances (Ciotoli) Nicolia. She and her twin brother were the middle two of eight children: John, Sam, Ann, Mary and Pete "Pio", Dee "Dominick", Josie, Ray.
Mary graduated from Academy High School. She met Anthony "Tony" P. Menditto while working as a waitress at a neighborhood restaurant; Tony was a frequent customer. A lifelong Catholic, Mary wed Tony at Holy Rosary in Erie in 1953 and was widowed in September 1954.
Mary had a long and rewarding career with the Woolworth Company. She traveled the continent opening new lunch counters inside their stores, including in Acapulco. Mary became an expert in running the lunch counters, honing her skills at the Buffalo store. She ran a tight ship, but family members who visited her there noted how many close friendships she had with her staff.
Mary was "Aunt Mary" to everyone, whether they were related by blood or not. Her larger-than-life personality was legendary. She was especially known for her cooking and hospitality, professionally and at home. Mary's repertoire was wide-her stuffed peppers, lasagna, pan-roasted chicken and so many pastas were all family favorites.
Mary did everything with enthusiasm - driving, dressing with great style, offering her opinion, cooking Italian specialties and chatting with family, Scotch and cigarette in hand. She swooped in whenever a family member needed help or company, driving between her Buffalo home and Erie, Michigan or Scranton regularly in her giant Cadillacs. An avid reader, Mary particularly liked John Grisham books and any good mystery.
Mary is survived by her brother Raymond Nicolia; her sister-in-law Charlene Nicolia; and a great number of nieces, nephews and godchildren. She lived with her niece Francesca DiSanti and Fran's husband Tony since 1987, and their children Anthony DiSanti and Candice Fink treasure childhood memories of day trips with Aunt Mary.
Friends may call on Saturday, May 28th at St. Peter Cathedral, 230 West 10th St., in Erie from 9:00 am until a funeral mass at 10:00 am. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery.
Arrangements are being handled by Brugger Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1595 West 38th St.