Barbara Ann Panella

Barbara was born in New Castle, PA to Abraham and Dorothy Vago. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, John Patrick Panella, her parents Abraham and Dorothy Vago, sisters, Mary Jo Spinelli and Jeanie Davelli and son-in-law William Brown.

She is survived by daughter, Debra Brown of Gastonia, NC, sons, Jon Panella and wife Lynda of Burleson, TX, and Bryan Panella and wife Erin of Arlington, TX, brother Frederick Vago and wife Carol, sister Gerri Gordon and husband Hal; eight grandchildren: Melinda Brown, Patrick Brown and wife Kari, Rachel Panella and husband Jon Frembling, Emily Panella, Natalie Panella, Angelica Brown, Nicholas Panella and Brodie Hill; 3 great grandchildren: Maggie Brown, Abbie Brown and Billy Brown.

Barbara was a traditional housewife and mother early in life until moving to Texas with her husband and sons in 1979. She began working in child care management ending her career as a Director of Operation of a large child care corporation. She then changed career paths and worked as an office manager of various Optometry offices until her retirement in 2010.

After retirement, Barbara truly came into her life as “Mema”. She spent every moment possible with the grandchildren and great grandchildren, traveled with her brother and sister-in-law, frequently visited her daughter in North Carolina and volunteered at her church, Saint Vincent de Paul working in the church office.

Barbara was a traditional Italian wife, mother and grandmother. She was an amazing cook and her passion was cleaning as she told everyone frequently “Everything has a place and a place for everything.”

She was a queen - the head of the Panella family and will leave an unfillable void in the family. She will be missed immeasurably by her family and friends.

Barbara’s service will be held privately for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations are sent to the American Cancer Society in Barbara’s name.