Maria “Mary” Mantova, age 79, of Mansfield, Ohio, passed away on Sunday July 19, 2026, at Grant Medical Center, Columbus. She was born September 12, 1946, in Siderno Marina, Calabria, Italy, to Giuseppe and Nunziata (Terranova) Martino.
She married her husband, Michele “Mike” Mantova in Italy on October 16, 1966, and immigrated to the United States where they raised their family. Maria worked hard throughout her life and is remembered for her strong work ethic. She diligently cared for her family and was a dedicated mother, wife, grandmother, and loyal friend to many.
A woman of faith, Maria was a parishioner of St. Peter Catholic Church. Her cooking was legendary, especially her homemade pizza, which was regarded by her family and friends as the best they had ever tasted. She poured love into every dish she prepared. She enjoyed gardening with her husband. Maria possessed a loving heart and a generous spirit that touched everyone fortunate enough to have met her. She was very proud of her Italian heritage and kept in close contact with family and made several trips back to Italy.
She is survived by her sons, Giuseppe “Joe” Mantova and Giuliano “Gil” Mantova; sister, Teresa Impiombato; brother, Vincenzo (Ida) Martino; grandchildren, Michele Mantova and Drake Mansfield; great grandchildren, Karsyn, Kamyah, and Camaelè; sister-in-law, Rosa Panetta; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Maria was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; oldest brother, Carmelo Martino; in-laws, Giuseppe (Maria Mileto) Mantova; and her sisters-in-law, Maria Fava and Melina Caccamo.
Friends and family are invited to visitation on Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond Street, Mansfield, a vigil service will follow at 7:00 PM at the funeral home. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Peter Parish, 60 S. Mulberry Street, Mansfield, OH. Burial will follow at Mansfield Catholic Cemetery.
Wappner Funeral Directors - Mansfield is honored to serve the family.
