Patti Mancuso

On Sunday, November 19th, 2023, Patti Sue Mancuso, a cherished wife, mother, and grandmother, peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by family. Born on September 5th, 1937, in West Helena, Arkansas, to Ruben and Viola McIlwain, Patti grew up in a bustling household with four siblings.

Patti's life journey took a beautiful turn when she married the love of her life, Cullen Mancuso, on February 6, 1954. Together, they embarked on a life filled with love, hard work, and the joy of family. The couple's entrepreneurial spirit led them to purchase and successfully run their own grocery stores in Houston, Texas. Patti and Cullen's lives were enriched, and the foundation of a close-knit family was shaped by their three beloved children—Patricia, Vincent, and Charles "Charlie.” Patti and Cullen purchased a piece of land in Brazos County to get away on the weekends, and after selling their grocery stores, they eventually moved their family there.

Patti's strong work ethic and determined nature led her to build Bridal Boutique, a thriving business offering beautiful wedding gowns and rentals across Central Texas. Her dedication didn't end there; she actively supported Cullen in his equipment rental company, U-Rent-M. Eventually, Patti and Cullen decided to sell their businesses and enjoyed spending their time at their ranch alongside the Brazos River. Together, they found joy in feeding the cows and spending time entertaining friends and family. Patti was an excellent cook whose legacy will live on through countless favorite recipes passed down to her children and grandchildren. Her home was a haven for laughter, love, and the gathering of family on every holiday and special occasion.

Deeply rooted in her community and faith, Patti was an active participant at St. Anthony Church and a compassionate force in the lives of those around her. She lived a life dedicated to the service of others, exemplifying the true essence of kindness and generosity. Patti's roles as a wife, mother, and grandmother were one she embraced wholeheartedly. She never missed a school function or birthday party, always present with a warm smile and open arms. Patti's love for her family was a guiding light that touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Patti is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Cullen, her daughter Patricia Scarmardo, her parents, Ruben, and Viola McIlwain, and siblings, Clarence McIlwain, Wesley McIlwain, and Janette Hopper.

Survivors include her son, Vincent Mancuso; her son Charlie Mancuso and wife Cindy; her son-in-law Bill Scarmardo; her granddaughters, Melissa Scarmardo-Rhodes and husband Ed, Amanda (Mancuso) Laird and husband Tim, and Allison (Mancuso) Kusak and husband Lee; her grandsons, William Scarmardo, Cullen Mancuso and wife Kelly, Cory Mancuso and wife Hallie, and Christian Mancuso and fiancée Brooke; her great-grandchildren Charlie, Josh, and Landon Laird, Ruth and Calvin Rhodes, Evie, Lillie, and Cullen (Huck) Kusak, Graham and Reese Mancuso, and Claire, Blake, and Reid Mancuso; and her brother, Ernie McIlwain and wife Glenda, and sister-in-law Jerry McIlwain.

The Mancuso Family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Thomas Ginn, Rita Rodriguez, Egna Rodriguez, Emery Rodriguez, Oneida Avila, and Arlene Mosley for their unwavering support and compassion.

Visitation will take place from 5:00 – 6:00 pm on Monday, November 27th, at Memorial Funeral Chapel, with a vigil service beginning at 6:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial in celebration of Patti's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 28th, 2023, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Bryan, followed by interment at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Bryan. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials be made to St. Anthony Catholic Church, 401 S. Parker Ave., Bryan, Texas 77803

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralchapelbryan.com for the Mancuso family.