Mr. Samuel Anthony "Sammy" Manino, Jr.

NEW HARTFORD - It is with great sadness and broken hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Samuel Anthony “Sammy” Manino, Jr. on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at the age of 50. Born in Utica on August 12, 1974, Samuel was the son of Samuel A. Manino, Sr. and Vera E. (But) Manino. He was a proud graduate of New Hartford High School/Class of 1992. Sammy was employed at Laurie’s Pizza from his teenage years through his 40s. It’s safe to say he thought of the pizzeria as a second home—a place where he could spend time with friends and share jokes. He had a natural talent for making everyone around him feel happy with his delicious food, warm laughter, and generous hospitality. He was employed at City Cab, a role that suited him perfectly. Most recently, Sammy worked at his family business, the Manino Brothers Farm, a legacy farm. A selfless soul, Sammy would drop whatever he was doing to help his family and friends, no matter the circumstance. He had a way about him that made everyone feel welcome and loved, as if they were part of the family. If you went anywhere with Sammy, it was sure to be an adventure. Riding in the car with him meant the music was turned up to full volume, you were singing along (though Sam always took the lead), and whatever was nearby became his “microphone.” With a deep passion for people and for life, Sammy was a charismatic natural leader and always the life of the party. He lived his life on his own terms, in his own time, and in his own way—creating cherished memories for all whose hearts he touched. He was well known for his sharp wit, unforgettable humor, and kind heart. He brought laughter and music into the lives of all who knew him. In his spare time, Sammy enjoyed playing and teaching guitar, as well as collecting them. He furthered his musical talent through being a valued band member of Crossfire, Atomic Love Puppies, and Dreaming Out Loud. He relished time spent camping and listening to music. In the days of home movies captured on handheld camcorders, Sammy was often the self-appointed “movie director” at family gatherings. He proudly walked around with the camcorder, performing little skits and interviewing family and friends—each segment ending with his signature line: “Let’s move on, shall we?” It’s hard to think of Sammy without smiling. We will forever picture him in his jeans and white T-shirts, always wearing his beaming smile. May the memories of the light he brought into the lives of all he touched shine eternal—until we meet again. Sammy is survived by his father, Samuel Sr. and his wife Kim Manino; mother, Vera Manino and John Garofalo; siblings and their loves, Karina and James Hulser, Jr., Michael Sr. and Antoinette Manino, Nicole Manino and Pierre Mena, and Nicholas Manino; niece and nephews, Michael Jr. (who was also his godson), and Raffaele Manino; and Ryan, and Julia Hulser; aunts and uncles, Cecelia and William Gaetano, Clare Manino (the late Charles Manino), Katrina and Dr. Michael Immerman, and Nadia and Michael Caleo; several cousins and their families; and the many friendships amassed throughout his life, too numerous to mention. He was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Samuel and Rose (Nicastro) Manino; maternal grandparents, Mykola and Luba (Dubyna) But; aunt and uncle, Edwina and Craig Pugh; and cousin, Joshua Immerman. A Memorial Gathering in Samuel’s honor will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The family will remain until all visitors have been seen. Memorial contributions in Samuel’s honor may be made to his family to assist them in establishing a scholarship for music students at his alma mater, New Hartford High School. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Samuel’s Memorial Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Lourdes Campus, 2222 Genesee St.

Mr. Samuel Anthony "Sammy" Manino, Jr.

August 12, 1974 - June 25, 2025