Catherine C. Mongelli

Catherine C. Mongelli of Monroe answered God’s call on Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2018, while surrounded by her devoted husband and loving children. She was courageously battling lung cancer at Orange Regional Medical Center.
She was born Nov. 12 in the Bronx and was the daughter of Joseph and Ann Geleski Lavore.
Cathy was a great mother to all. But she especially embraced her role as protective mother to her three children. Her highest priority and life’s work were to celebrate and enjoy the fruits of a big family.
The ability to celebrate your family everyday represented the essence of experiencing a full and meaningful life. She especially loved cooking meals for large gatherings that included multiple courses. Each course was carefully prepared and an expression of her love.
Cathy’s favorite times were when the house was full and filled with laughter. Her signature dish was “lobster sauce.” Each ingredient had to pass her rigorous taste test. When everyone ate this sauce, they would respond with the expression “Out-of-this world.”
Serving delicious food was her greatest joy.
In addition to a flourishing family life, Cathy was a successful local entrepreneur. For many years, she owned and operated the La Ferhan’s Beauty Salon and Island Tanning. Having those businesses gave her an opportunity to build many lasting friendships and become an integral part of the community.
Survivors include her loving husband Joseph Mongelli at home, her son Anthony Mongelli of Monroe; daughters Lisa Mongelli-Pirraglia and her husband Anthony of Monroe and Erica Mongelli-Spalletta of Monroe; seven adoring grandchildren: Samantha, Anthony, Gina, Michael, Vincent, Angela and Giavanna.
Catherine was predeceased by her precious grandsons Salvatore and Joseph.
There will be no visitation. A Mass to celebrate her life was held at St. Anastasia’s on Feb. 5 at noon.
Arrangements by Smith, Seaman & Quackenbush, Inc. Funeral Home (845-782-8185; www.ssqfuneralhome.com).