Maria G. Lacroce

KULPMONT-Maria “Gaby” Lacroce went to her heavenly reward on Thursday, January 25, 2024.  Born in Isca Sullo Ionio, Italy, on August 5, 1928, she was the daughter of the late Vincenzo and Maria (Varano) Raynal. 

She attended school in Italy. 

On January 5, 1950, in Isca Sullo Ionio, Maria married Salvatore “Tony” Lacroce who preceded her in death on October 31, 1999.   Shortly after her marriage she immigrated to the United States, along with her sister Josephine.  Becoming an American citizen was a source of pride for her.   Most importantly, she valued the right to vote.  

Maria was a member of the Holy Angels Parish in Kulpmont.  A woman of faith, she had a strong devotion to the Blessed Mother and Padre Pio.

She was an outstanding and most caring dear friend. Always remembering to ask about friends and their children, she was pleased when they attained success.

Maria had an innate talent for sewing and spent many years working in various garment factories.  She enjoyed designing beautiful articles of clothing, using her own patterns and sewing clothes for herself and family members, including dresses for formal occasions.  In addition, she was a gifted baker and cook who thoroughly enjoyed creating scrumptious meals and authentic Italian sweet treats for her family, whom she loved dearly.  There was always more than enough to eat and plenty of leftovers.  Her favorite words were “mangia, mangia”.  

 She is survived by her loving and devoted children, Catherine of Kulpmont and Vincent (Cynthia) of Palmyra; three grandchildren, Jessica Nixon (Scott), Michelle Lacroce, and Michael Lacroce; two great-grandchildren, Landon and Grayson Nixon; sister, Gilda Brinkach; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.  

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Josephine Feudale, Ellen Mattis, Rose Nemeth, Sarina Schell, and nephew, Saverio Feudale.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at 11:00 am in Holy Angles Church, Kulpmont with Rev. Andrew J. Stahmer, Pastor as celebrant.  Interment will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Mt. Carmel Township, Kulpmont.  There will be no viewing at the funeral home, everyone is invited to attend the Mass.  In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be made to Guardian Angel Outreach, c/o Holy Angels Parish, 855 Scott Street, Kulpmont, PA 17834.  Joseph J. Stutz, Inc. Funeral Home, 40 South Market Street, Mt. Carmel, Joseph J. Stutz III, Supervisor has been entrusted with the arrangements.  To offer condolences to Gaby's family please sign the guestbook at www.stutzfuneralhome.com.