Josephine A. (Gionfriddo) Mancarella

Josephine A. (Gionfriddo) Mancarella, beloved wife, mother, and Nanna, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday March 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Joyce, as she was known to many, was born in New Britain on December 15, 1942, the last surviving of four children to the late Sebastian and Frances (Giaquinta) Gionfriddo.  Joyce attended New Britain High School and went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree from Central Connecticut State University.  A wealth of knowledge, she was always eager to learn and grow.

For over 60 wonderful years, Josephine was married to the love of her life, Paul Mancarella. They built a family and a beautiful life, and together, owned and operated All Seasons Spirit Shop in Plainville. Their shared passion for hard work was matched only by their devotion to family. Known for her selflessness and generous spirit, she was a constant presence in her family’s lives and she poured love into everything she did, from her bountiful garden and decorating her home, to the delicious meals she prepared. She found peace and joy at the beach, captivated by the ocean’s beauty. An avid supporter of the UCONN Huskies and the Boston Red Sox, she cheered with the same fervor she brought to all aspects of life.  Josephine will be remembered for her caring nature, deep love for her family, and the countless lives she touched along the way. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

In addition to her husband Paul, she leaves her children, Jeffrey Mancarella and his husband Todd; Janice Portlock and her husband Tom; and Lori Plumley and her husband Sam; her four adored grandchildren, Jack and Brynn Portlock and Parker and Bailee Plumley; along with many nieces and nephews that she loved dearly, including her nephews Mark and Sal Gionfriddo with whom she shared a special bond.  She was predeceased by her brothers, Paul and Salvatore Gionfriddo and her sister Lucille Petralia.

In lieu of flowers, Joyce may be remembered with contributions to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 1111 Cromwell Ave, Bldg. 3, Suite 302 C, Rocky Hill, CT 06067 or http://www.nationalmssociety.org

Family and friends may gather in celebration of Joyce’s life on Friday March 7, 2025 from 5-7 p.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday March 8, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., meeting directly at Our Lady of Mercy Church, 94 Broad St, Plainville.  Burial will be held privately at a later date.  For online expressions of sympathy, please visit http://www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com

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