MaryAnn Mancuso

MaryAnn Mancuso, of Hixson, daughter of Harry and Helen Kramer, passed away at a local hospital, surrounded by family and loved ones, on Tuesday, April 23, 2013.Born Feb. 27, 1937 in Pittsburgh, Pa., MaryAnn was 76 years old. MaryAnn was preceded in death by her husband, Al Mancuso; her son, Michael Mancuso; and grandson, Gabriel Gutillo.MaryAnns survivors include her son, Mark (Karen) Mancuso, of Charlotte, N.C.; daughter Diane (David) Gutillo, of Soddy-Daisy; and son, Robert (Nanette) Mancuso, of Hixson. Her grandchildren include Matthew, Jakob, Mario and Dominic Mancuso, Michael, Adriane and Nicholas Gutillo.MaryAnn, (Midge, known by most) was the consummate Matriarch for the Mancuso family. Stoic and humble in her demeanor, MaryAnn was often described as the keystone that provided family and friends with a sense of togetherness and completeness. Hospitable and welcoming in nature, her house was a true home to many throughout the years. Often behind the scenes but never out of mind, those that knew MaryAnn came to appreciate her as "Mama Leoni" for her stubbornness and persistence...it was unavoidable! She will always be remembered for establishing and sustaining great traditions like Sunday dinners and gatherings at the Mancuso house...where there was never a stranger.Honoring MaryAnns requests, no visitation, memorial or funeral service will be held. MaryAnn has requested cremation services which will be provided by Williamson and Sons Funeral Home of Soddy-Daisy. A small, family gathering presided by Pastor Claire Sauer of Grace United Methodist Church will be held graveside, followed by entombment at Hamilton Memorial Gardens.A special note of appreciation is expressed to Hospice of Chattanooga and the 5th Floor of Memorial Hospital.In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Hospice of Chattanooga, St. Judes Childrens Hospital or Ronald McDonald House.Condolences and memories may be shared at www.williamsonandsons.com.Arrangements are by Williamson & Sons Funeral Home, 8852 Dayton Pike Soddy-Daisy, TN 37