Carmella A. Mayette passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, May 3, 2026 after a short illness. Born on September 8, 1934, in Saratoga Springs, she was the oldest daughter of the late Gennaro and Margaret (Scuderi) Sansiveri. She was a 1952 graduate of Saratoga High School.

She spent her early working years at The Saratogian until the mid-1950s when she became a stay- at-home Mom with three daughters. When her oldest began high school Carmella, as a single Mom, returned to the workforce again at the Saratogian as secretary to the publisher and later worked in bookkeeping at the newspaper. She continued her career in an administrative support position at Clinical Services, part of St. Peter’s Hospital. When she “retired” in the early 2000s she wrapped up her career working with her daughter Stacie at Home Made Theater as an Administrative Assistant, where she could be found in the box office and answering the phone.

Carmella, was strong, very proud and she always worked hard to provide for her girls. She raised her three daughters largely on her own in a remarkable fashion. Working hard to support her family, to be sure that they had what they needed; a safe home, food on the table, college educations and just the clothes and special things that they wanted. She'd shop well and sometimes drive great lengths to get just the right gifts, even if it required a trip out of state. Day trips to Vermont were a favorite activity. Shopping and lunch out were a great way to spend the day! As the mom to school aged children, she chaperoned many field trips, even a big one to Rochester when St. Peter's won the 1973 NYS Basketball Championship.

Gram, as her two grandchildren always referred to her, was an important part of their lives. She was a permanent fixture at their extracurricular activities. From soccer games and later football games, to more soccer games and dance recitals, even some of her great granddaughter's, she always showed up, often the one you could hear cheering the loudest. Any time her grandchildren spent the night at her house, she made homemade pizza with them. They still remember how she'd buy a block of mozzarella cheese to slice thinly to top the pizza with, instead of getting pre-packaged shredded cheese, a little detail they loved.

Shopping days out continued with her granddaughter. While Carmella always bought her a special dress each Christmas, years later, she insisted on purchasing her wedding dress, stating, "It's the last dress I'll ever get to buy you." Those special days were cherished by all three generations.

Carmella was very proud of her town home that she purchased in the 1980s. She lived there until just a few years ago when she downsized to an apartment, where there was *never* enough room.

Carmella loved the ocean. She enjoyed spending time with her brother and sister-in-law at their vacation home on the Jersey shore, whether walking the beach or sitting on the balcony with a good book. Another favorite while in Jersey were adventures with her dear sister-in-law Denise, shopping, going to the casinos in Atlantic City or simply spending time together. Beyond Atlantic City, Carmella enjoyed a visit to any casino, and in particular the slot machines

Her girls made sure she traveled by including her in their plans, visiting London in the ‘90s, trips to the ocean in many states, overnights to out of town Siena football games, Yankee Stadium Old Timers' Day, Andrea Bocelli concert, or a relaxing week in the summer up at her daughter and son-in-laws’ bed & breakfast. These were some of her favorites.

In her later years she was the epitome of a little old feisty Italian woman through and through. She stood up for herself and her family, always. She was sarcastic, witty, sharp, and most decidedly still feisty, even at the age of 91. On the flip side, she was also very caring and loving. While the outside world may have seen her tougher outer shell, those close to her know that she would do anything for them, and felt her love.

Aside from her parents Carmella was pre-deceased by her three siblings Anthony Sansiveri, Marie Farone and Margaret Farone.

She is survived by her three daughters Suzanne Mangini (David) of Saratoga Springs, Marianne Lynch (Stephen) of Granville and Stacie Barnes (Howard) of Saratoga Springs. Also surviving are her two grandchildren Andrew Mangini (Melissa) of Halfmoon and Audrey Moore (Aaron) of Ballston Lake. Her four great-grandchildren who were an absolute highlight of her later years and always brought huge smiles to her face; Max and Lily Mangini and Aislynn and DJ Moore will miss Great-Gram immensely. Carmella is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Her family extends their thanks to the Palliative Care team at Saratoga Hospital. Dr. Pezzulo, Mitch Forshay, and the nurses were wonderful. Her daughters are also grateful to their Mom’s dear friend Vince Walsh who spent many hours visiting and often sharing some wine with Carmella. His friendship and companionship were a blessing.

Relatives and friends may call from 4 to 7pm on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518-584-5373). A Funeral Home Service will be conducted on Thursday, at a time to be announced. Burial will immediately follow in St. Peter's Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family encourages memorial donations to the Saratoga Hospital Foundation, for the Palliative Care Department, 211 Church Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 https://saratogahospital.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/saratogahospital/donation.jsp or The Beagle School Capital Campaign, 15 Regent Street, also in Saratoga Springs https://www.beagleschool.com/donate Her grandchildren and great grandchildren are alumni and her granddaughter serves on the Executive Board.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com