Obituary of Jean A. Lentini

Born on January 22, 1909 in Sicily, Jean A. Lentini, age 105 of Clifton Park, formerly of Hicksville, Long Island, passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2014, at her home. She was predeceased by her husband Anthony Lentini, son John Mendolia, daughters Iona Bell and Marie Greenough, and grandsons Peter Greenough and John Bell.

She is survived by her daughter Pauline Santoro, daughter-in-law Dolores Mendolia, grandchildren Janette Santoro, Victor Santoro (Anitra), Joseph Santoro (Janet) and Paul Santoro, Susan Toomey (Gary), John Mendolia, Jr., Linda Taylor (Alan), Jeanne Hill (Creg), Cindy Behr (Paul), and John Greenough (Roxanna). She is also survived by 21 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great-grandchildren.

Jean was an accomplished seamstress. For more than 30 years she worked in New York’s Garment District with noted designers, creating patterns for prominent fashion houses. A very attractive woman, she was the model for many prototypes.

Never afraid to try her luck at a casino or take a bet on a horse, in 1960, she had the surprise of her life—she won second prize in the Irish Sweepstakes-$125,000. “Mama Jean” loved her family and spoiled them with great meals and the “best pizza ever.” She and her husband Tony lived life to the fullest and left a beautiful legacy for four generations of children.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, September 5, from 4 to 7 p.m. with a service at

6:30 p.m. at the Catricala Funeral Home Inc., 1597 Route 9, Clifton Park. Burial will be on Saturday at 11 a.m. in Cemetery of the Holy Rood, Westbury, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your local animal shelter.