Carmela R. Mariano, 100, formerly of Warren, passed away peacefully at Shepherd of the Valley in Howland on December 19, 2020.

She was born on Feb 11, 1920, in New Castle, PA., the daughter of Nicola Racco

and Pasqua Mascio Racco.

Carmela married James J. Mariano on January 24, 1946, at St. Mary's Church, Warren. They shared 72 years together before his death in November 2018. She and Jim both lived to celebrate their 100th birthdays! She claimed that their longevity was due to 'good Italian cooking.'

She valued her role as a homemaker and enjoyed sewing, cooking, and baking.

She passed on this love of cooking to her family. Gardening was her passion and

she was extremely proud of her roses. Every spring she started all of her tomatoes

and peppers from seeds. Carmela was a member of the former St. Joseph's Church, now St. John Paul II Parish, the Cinquanta Club, and the Mahoning Valley Chapter of the Ex POWs.

She is survived by her children, Jeanne (Bill) Jackson of Sterling Heights, MI, and

James (Sophie) Mariano of Chula Vista, CA.; two granddaughters, Jennifer

Jackson of Oak Park, MI, and Michelina Mariano of Imperial Beach, CA.; one

great grandchild, Jonathan; and two brothers, Nick Racco of Alliance, and Joseph

Racco of Ravenna.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and brothers Alfred,

Arthur, Gino, and Vincent, and sister Lenora Racco Orr.

A private family service will be held.

Burial will be in All Souls Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the

Disabled American Veterans or the Oblate Sisters of the Sacred Heart of JesusVilla Maria Teresa, 50 Warner Road, Hubbard, Ohio 44425.

Family and friends may visit www.peterrossiandsonfh.com to view this obituary, sign the guestbook, and send condolences to the family.