Mrs. Marie D. (Garcea) Manca

UTICA – Mrs. Marie D. (Garcea) Manca peacefully went home to the Lord on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at the age of 89. Marie was born in Utica on September 3, 1933 to the late Enrico and Elizabeth (Scala) Garcea. She was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1951. On August 6, 1955, Marie wed Robert “Bob” Manca. Marie and Bob were a balanced couple. They had common traits and values which made their life together a blessing to both of them. Marie and Bob shared over 52 years prior to Bob’s passing on March 27, 2008. Marie began her working career as a bookkeeper at Utica Gear. She was then fortunate to have become part of Utica Community Action. It was here that she held her primary and most valued position as Executive Secretary. She loved the mission of the company, which was to strengthen the families of the community with a spirit of joy and hope, and was a trusted employee and coworker. Marie had a humble and inspiring sense about her. She was hospitable and kind-hearted, and forged unity in her family and social life. She had strong virtues, which she shared with her nieces and nephews. She was truly a mother-figure to them. Marie was always an advocate for a good time, and remembered fondly many block-parties with her Elizabeth Street neighborhood. She always enjoyed her summer trips to Atlantic City with all who were able to attend. The disco era was her favorite; Tina Turner was her idol. She loved to listen to music, from 45s to CDs, always on high decibel. She was a well put-together woman of great style and grace. She was known for always looking well in fashion and attire; she remained striking, even to the end. Marie was well-known and well-liked, which was a large compliment to her life. Marie served her community and church organization with commitment. She was talented and meticulous in preparation of her specialties in the kitchen. She always gave her nieces her insider tips, which were never to be repeated! Marie was in charge of herself and knew the many purposes she was placed on this earth to perform, all of which were benevolent. Marie was grounded in her faith from a young age. She knew the glory of God. She was faithful and devoted to the needs of the church, and when in God’s home she was at her best! She had her reserved pew at her home parish, St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Church. Marie was a strong woman and was predeceased by her two sisters, Loretta Trinco, and Joyce Redd. She is survived by her brothers-in-law, Dominick “Dick” Trinco and his wife Marie, and William E. “Chick” Redd, Jr. Her memory will be left in the hearts of her nieces and nephews, Rick Trinco and Phyllis Christiano, Gina and John Spinelli, Christopher Trinco and Rosemarie Grounds Costello, Lisa and Brian Raehm, and Will Redd; and great-nieces and great-nephews, Stephanie and Ray Briggs, Francesca Spinelli, Gabrielle Spinelli, Loretta Trinco, Hunter Raehm, and Miles Redd; and her great-great-nephews, Luka Dizdarevic; and Parker, and Owen Briggs. She will also be remembered by her Elizabeth Street “extended family” who truly enhanced her life. Marie was also predeceased by her-in-laws, Jean and Frank Dardano, Rita and Thomas Fierro, Lawrence and Mary Manca, Dick and Nicolena Manca, and Anthony and Harriet Manca; and her nephew, Billy Manca. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the Barton West staff of the MVHS Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. Marie was beloved by all, but especially Joanne and Karen who treated her with much love and affection. Marie’s family will honor and commemorate her life at a private time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay Street. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of the Mass. Memorial contributions in Marie’s honor may be made to St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish online at www.mountcarmelblessedsacrament.com/donate; envelopes will also be available at the service. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mrs. Marie D. (Garcea) Manca

September 3, 1933 - June 1, 2023