Johanna Ninassi, 89, of Exeter, passed away peacefully on Monday, Oct. 6, 2025, at her lifelong home, surrounded by her loving family. She was joyfully reunited in heaven with her beloved husband, Vince, her parents, Antonio and Amelia Menghini, and her sister, Anita Rucco.
Johanna is survived by her daughter and caregiver, Anita (Pat Lizza); son, Vincent Ninassi (Laurie), Exeter; grandsons, Brandon Lizza Exeter, Patrick Lizza (Allie); and great-granddaughter, Mia Lizza, of New Jersey; nieces and nephews.
Earlier in life, Johanna worked as a presser in the garment industry at Star Garment in Exeter. She was a devout Catholic and a woman of deep faith.
Johanna's greatest joy and passion was her family. Being a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and aunt brought her immense love, pride and happiness, filling her heart with warmth and purpose. Johanna carried on her cherished Italian traditions and found great joy in cooking, cleaning and caring for her home. Many times you would find her in her favorite spot on the front porch. She enjoyed playing cards with friends and neighbors and treasured frequent visits from family and friends. A loyal Pittsburgh Steelers fan, Johanna spent many Sundays cheering for her team. Their Italian greyhound, Santino, was a loyal companion to Johanna, often keeping her company and joining her on neighborhood walks for many years.
The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Allied Services Hospice in Wilkes-Barre, and to their exceptional home health nurses and aides for the kindness and compassion they showed throughout Johanna's illness this year. Deep gratitude also goes to the many friends and family members who visited and lifted her spirits with their presence and support. May her memory be a source of comfort and her love continue to shine in the hearts of those she touched.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Allied Services Hospice, Wilkes Barre in honor of Johanna's memory.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, in St. Anthony of Padua Church (Corpus Christi Parish), 224 Memorial St., Exeter.
The family will receive friends from 9 a.m. until time of Mass.
Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Roman Catholic Cemetery, Carverton section of Kingston Township.
Arrangements are in the care of Gubbiotti Funeral Home LLC, 1030 Wyoming Ave., Exeter.
To send the family an expression of sympathy or a condolence, visit www.gubbiottifh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Funeral services provided by:
Gubbiotti Funeral Home, LLC - Exeter1030 Wyoming Avenue, Exeter, PA 18643
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