Obituary
Joseph R. Mannella, Jr. (Joe) 53, died on Friday, October 7, 2016. Born in Horsham Pennsylvania on May 2, 1963, he also lived in Indianapolis, Indiana before moving to Orlando. He is survived by his devoted wife, Antonia Luciene (Lulu), and his beloved children Ashley Stevens (Indianapolis) and Joseph Anthony. Also surviving are parents Joseph R. Mannella, Sr. (Elaine), and Eadie Barrie (Indianapolis); siblings Tammy Taylor (Indianapolis) and Jeanne Mannella (Indianapolis), and nieces Marissa and Rachael Taylor. He was preceded in death by his brother Michael James.
Joe was a longtime employee of Lamm Company Partners serving most recently as Superintendent. He was a graduate of Central Bucks West High School in Doylestown, Pennsylvania and an avid sports fan.
With a zest for life and a smile that would light up a room, Joe embodied the true American spirit of work hard, play hard, love deeply and cherish family. True to his Italian roots he became an exceptional cook and keeper of family tradition. Once he met Lulu he embraced her Brazilian heritage as well and learned to cook her favorite ethnic meals.
Joe was a true family man, embracing not only the immediate family but the extended family as well. Remaining close with family and friends was a constant priority and he did it well. He always had a true sense of the “right thing to do”. A romantic to the core, Joe always found the right sentiment in a card and the right gift for an occasion. Meeting and marrying Lulu was a precious gift and their love was something out of a romance novel. Devoted doesn’t even begin to cover it. His children were one of his greatest blessings and he was always so proud of their accomplishments. He was an exceptional son, always ready to help or fix anything and that trait carried over to his friends. Clever and resourceful he could always figure it all out.
Joe loved to ski and snowboard especially in Colorado, he bass fished whenever and wherever he could, and loved to play golf. He especially looked forward to a celebration of family on the New Jersey Shore every July. Music was an important part of his life and he loved to dance. He embraced his Philadelphia sports teams especially the Flyers and the Eagles and never seemed to forget a statistic.
Calling will be held in Henry Chapel, First Baptist Orlando 3000 South John Young Parkway
on October 20 from 5 to 8 pm. Funeral services will also be held in Henry Chapel on October 21 at 10:30 am. Inurnment will take place immediately afterward at Winter Garden Cemetery
13636 Lake Butler Blvd, Winter Garden.
A Celebration of Life will take place in Indianapolis on November 4, 2016 at the Northside Knights of Columbus, 2100 East 71st St. Open House from 6:30 – 9:00 pm ; In Memorium tribute 7:15 pm
In lieu of flowers a donation to the American Lung Association would be welcomed.
My heart is broken upon learning the news of Joe's passing today. My prayers and heartfelt condolences to you from my family to yours. I will always remember Joe's love of life, his smile and willingness to help whenever needed. The time spent at Little League baseball games with Joseph and Kyle will remain in our hearts.
Godspeed Joe.
Betsy, Kyle, Cassie, and Cole Kuchta
Joe & Lulu's Wedding
Such a wonderful couple together -- such love.
I will always remember the 17-year-old kid coming to the 1980 World Series, 6th game in Philly, with his Father and Uncle Charlie. At the Veteran's Stadium in South Philly, we watched the Phillies win their first World Series. Joe was ecstatic.
Also, in the summer of 2013 at Cape Canaveral Beach in Florida, I witnessed as he courted a young Brazilian lady (Lulu), falling in love with her, and eventually marrying her.
He always helped me in any of my homes in PA or FL.
I will miss his smile, knowledge, and enthusiasm. I will never forget my nephew and God-son.
With my love,
Uncle Al, Joe's Godfather
He will be sorely missed. My deep sympathies to the entire family.
I will always remember your humor, and cooking!!
May your memories give you peace and comfort. Some people come into our lives, leave footprints on our hearts and we are never the same..wishing you all peace and healing during this difficult time.