Mangano Family Funeral Homes (Deer Park) recently announced that the Town of Babylon honored the late Barbara Mangano with a ceremonial street renaming in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the funeral service profession and her unwavering dedication to the Deer Park community. A commemorative street sign bearing her name now stands near the funeral home that she helped build into a beacon of compassion, service and family tradition.
Born June 12, 1949, in Brooklyn, New York, Mangano moved to Deer Park at age 14. She brought with her the values and work ethic instilled in her while assisting at her grandfather’s funeral home as a child. At just 11 years old, she began helping with small but important tasks, such as cleaning and straightening chairs after services. In 1971, Mangano broke barriers by becoming the first female licensed funeral director in Suffolk County. This was a trailblazing achievement that opened doors for generations of women in the profession.
For decades, she served not only grieving families but also a wide array of charitable and civic organizations. She was an active member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Sons of Italy, South Shore Lions Club, and Deer Park Business Women’s Professional Club. Mangano also supported Ss. Cyril and Methodius Roman Catholic Church, Mercy Soup Kitchen, Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital, and the Bowery Mission.
A devoted mother and proud grandmother of six, she cherished time with her family, loved to cook and embraced her passion for travel. She is remembered for her loving heart, selflessness and unwavering dedication to her community.
Sal Mangano, president of Mangano Family Funeral Homes and Barbara Mangano’s son, said: “My mother was the heart and soul of our family and our business. She dedicated her life to helping others during their most difficult times and to lifting up the community she loved so deeply. I want to thank the Town of Babylon for recognizing her legacy with this beautiful tribute. It means so much to our family and all those whose lives she touched. This street sign is more than a name – it’s a symbol of the compassion, resilience and love she embodied every day.” ManganoFH.com
