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Mary Theresa
Frenna
Jun 12, 1926 — Aug 2, 2025
Mary Theresa Frenna, a cherished mother, grandmother and friend and beacon of warmth in her community, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025, at the age of 99, at St. Luke's Hospice House in Bethlehem, PA.
Born on June 12, 1926, in the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood of New York City, to the late Leonardo and Lucia (D'Imperio) Marzocco. Mary's life was a tapestry of
dedication to her family, a testament to her resilience, and an example of her passion for the simple joys in life.
Mary's formative years were spent in the bustling streets of Manhattan, where she graduated from Washington Irving High School. Her early career as a seamstress showcased her
meticulous craftsmanship, a skill that would bring joy to many throughout her life. Mary later worked part time at New York Life Insurance, where she retired, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and reliability.
Predeceased by her beloved husband, Thomas J. Frenna, and her parents, Mary also bid farewell to her siblings, Angelo, Joseph, Michael, Frank Marzocco, and Theresa Caro, before her own passing. Despite these losses, Mary's strength never wavered, and she continued to be the cornerstone of her family.
She is survived by her loving children, Geraldine Locorriere (Gerri) and her husband Jack of
Bethlehem, PA, and Thomas H. Frenna, M.D. (Tommy) of Manhattan, NY. Mary's brother, Angelo Marzocco, and his wife Jeanne of California, also remain to honor her memory. Her legacy continues to bloom through her cherished granddaughter, Renee Locorriere-Bricketto, and husband, Adam Bricketto, who will carry on her traditions and values.
A devout Christian, Mary's faith guided her through the trials and triumphs of life. She was a woman of many talents and interests. A great seamstress, she took pride in her ability to craft beautiful garments, including exquisite Barbie doll clothes that delighted the hearts of children and adults alike. She was quite fashionable and loved clothing and jewelry that sparkled. Her hands were rarely still, as she enjoyed crocheting, creating intricate patterns that were both beautiful and functional. She loved books and was an avid reader. She enjoyed watching the old classic movies and westerns, especially with her family. Listening to music brought her great joy. Some of her favorites were Frank Sinatra, Glenn Miller, Chris Botti and Spanish guitar. Sunflowers and geraniums were her favorite flowers. But above all, she loved sitting around the kitchen table surrounded by family and friends, talking, laughing and sharing stories.
Mary's love of horses was known to all who knew her, and she found great pleasure in their grace and majesty. Her adventurous spirit shone brightly through her love of road trips, especially those to the New England states and the Southwest, where she would immerse herself in the natural beauty and historic charm.
Mary Theresa Frenna lived a life rich in experiences, woven through with the threads of love, family, and faith. Her passing leaves a void that can never be filled, yet her spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. As we bid her farewell, we celebrate the life of a woman who was not only a beloved mother, sister, and grandmother but also a steadfast friend and an enduring influence on all who crossed her path. Her memory will be treasured forever in the hearts of her family and friends.
I stand at your gate and the song that I sing is of moonlight
I stand and I wait for the touch of your hand in the June night
The roses are sighing a Moonlight Serenade
The stars are aglow and tonight how their light sets me dreaming
My love, do you know that your eyes are like stars brightly beaming?
I bring you and sing you a Moonlight Serenade
Let us stray till break of day
in love's valley of dreams
Just you and I, a summer sky
a heavenly breeze kissing the trees
So don't let me wait, come to me tenderly in the June night
I stand at your gate and I sing you a song in the moonlight
a love song, my darling, a Moonlight Serenade
"Moonlight Serenade" -Glenn Miller/Mitchell Parish
There's nothing but the big forever
There's nothing but a sweet surrender now
You're a constellation
A white light vibration now
A superpower, a lotus flower
"Sister Tilly" - Natalie Merchant
Services: A Celebration of Mary's life will be announced by the family for a date in the fall. There will be a private family burial at Calverton National Cemetery, Long Island, New York. Mary's services have been entrusted to Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, Bethlehem. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.
Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mary's name to any of the following:
St. Labre Indian School
Ashland, MT 59004
www.stlabre.org/ways-to-give/
866-753-5496
Paralyzed Veterans of America
PVA: Donation Processing Center
P.O.Box 758589
Topeka, KS 66675
www.pva.org
800-555-9140
St. Luke's Hospice House
2455 Black River Road
Bethlehem, PA 18015
484-526-7100
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