Mrs. Mary Monichelli

Mrs. Mary Monichelli, a beloved Catholic high school teacher, devoted educator, and faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025. She was 88 years old.

Born on September 24, 1936, in Pittston, PA, she was the daughter of the late John and Domenica Angela (Bau) DeGraba. She attended Pittston Township High School and graduated from Misericordia College, Class of '58, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History, after which she became a teacher.

For more than 47 years, Mrs. Monichelli dedicated herself to her work with great commitment. She started teaching at the St. Rocco's School in Pittston followed by a lengthy career at the former St. John the Evangelist/Seton Catholic High School. She taught various subjects, including Biology, World History, Social Studies, and World Cultures. She influenced the lives of many students and guided them to live with purpose, empathy, decency and faith. She was known for her gentle demeanor and unwavering integrity.

Mrs. Monichelli was more than a teacher. She was actively involved in community service and volunteerism for her school and church, receiving recognition and acknowledgments both locally and nationally. She supported her school clubs, coached cheerleaders, and participated in many extracurricular activities. She taught CCD and sang in church choir. She was a mentor to both students and colleagues alike.

She was a lifelong member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel / St. Joseph Marello Church, Pittston.

Mary was a big fan of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Red Barons and Philadelphia Phillies. Her and husband Joe together loved watching the Honeymooners and the Three Stooges. They also loved their dogs Max, Pino, Clovi and Rusty.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 48 years, Joseph; daughter, Marlene; father, John; mother, Domenica Angela; and brother, John. She is survived by her son, Joseph Monichelli; nephew, John DeGraba, wife, Deborah and daughter, Rachel (Virginia); and cousin, Sharon Horbinski (Pittston). She is also survived by countless former students and dear friends whose lives she touched with her kind heart.

A viewing will begin at 8:00AM followed by a 9:30AM Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday, July 24th at St. Joseph Marello Church in Pittston. Both viewing and mass are at the church. A private burial ceremony will be held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Wyoming PA.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Adonizio Funeral Home, LLC, 251 William St., Pittston.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Catholic Charities USA.

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