Gina M. Mangano

Gina Mangano Obituary
Gina Marie Mangano was born August 7th, 1963, to parents Mary (Spector) – from whom she derived her beauty and strength, and Luciano Mangano.  Gina grew up on Mansfield Avenue in Willimantic a place where memories and lifelong friends were made, stickball played and there were playmates galore.  While she enjoyed all of those activities, she was never more herself than with the sea in front of her and toes in the sand.  Gina graduated from Windham High School in 1981 and still trying to find her place in the world, worked at the East Brook Mall and DeSiato Construction.  She attended ECSU in her 20’s and began her career at DCF, first at the Willimantic office and then in Norwich. Because of her tenacity, empathy and big heart, Gina was able to have a positive influence on many lives both personally and professionally.  If there was a way to rescue every child in crisis, Gina would have found it.

Although her professional career was extraordinary, Gina would say that her greatest accomplishment and joy came from being a Mom to her daughter, Claire; a belated blessing in her life. Her only regret was that she and Claire did not have nearly enough time together.

Left to mourn her tremendous loss are her daughter, Claire Charbonneau who was the light of her life, and siblings, Maxwell (Cache), Ben, Jay Ellen & nephew, Sam Prague.  Also left are many cousins, co-workers and her amazing friends.  She is also missed by her many fur babies as she missed Bella.  She was predeceased by her parents and sister, Libbe Prague.

Gina had cancer, but cancer never had her.  She lived for life fiercely and faced every challenge head on.  Her sass and sarcasm served her well throughout her battle.  She was an inspiration and helped many as they navigated their own paths with this disease.  Gina passed on November 15th, the date of the Super Beaver Moon.  She was surrounded by her “tribe” of strong women with warrior spirits like hers.  They saw her on her next journey; one lit by a bright celestial lamp to guide her.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Oak Tree Crew Inc. ( Oaktreecrew@comcast.net ), a cause that was near and dear to Gina’s heart.  A celebration of Gina’s life will take pace in 2025, at the convenience of her family.  Details will be posted on Facebook.  Her family and friends would like to thank her dedicated caregivers at Smilow Cancer Institute in New Haven.  You kept her with us as long as was possible and that is greatly appreciated.


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