Obituary of Monica Grace Stancanelli-Leggio

Monica Grace Stancanelli-Leggio, born on July 2, 1941, in Manhattan, New York, passed away on December 27, 2024, due to complications from COVID pneumonia. 

Monica’s life began in the vibrant heart of Manhattan, where she later married Angelo DiCorato and lovingly raised their two sons, Jeffrey and Christopher. Following her divorce, she remained steadfast in her devotion to her children, nurturing them with unwavering care and resilience. Later in life, Monica found love again with her late husband Mario Leggio and moved to Long Island. Together they created a life filled with joy and shared passions for cooking and dancing—simple pleasures that brought warmth to their days. Monica’s boundless compassion shone brightly as she tenderly cared for Mario during his final days, just as she had done for many others throughout her life, including her beloved parents.

Her professional journey was marked by dedication and grace. Monica enjoyed a fulfilling career with many different jobs that included working at a private doctor’s office before transitioning to an administrative role in the Student Affairs office at Queensborough Community College. Her work reflected her meticulous nature and genuine desire to support those around her. After retiring, Monica moved to Harpersfield, NY, where she shared a home with her son Christopher. In this quiet countryside setting, they supported one another through life’s challenges while creating moments of solace and connection.

Monica was predeceased by many of those closest to her: her cherished husband Mario Leggio; her parents Mary Boccia and Vito Stancanelli; her brother Joseph (Giuseppe) Stancanelli; and most heartbreakingly, both of her sons Jeffrey and Christopher DiCorato. Despite these profound losses, Monica carried herself with remarkable strength and continued to embody compassion for those who crossed her path.

She is survived by four treasured grandchildren: Angela DiCorato, John DiCorato, Christina DiCorato, and Gabriella DiCorato. Additionally, she leaves behind numerous cousins and dear friends who will forever hold memories of Monica close to their hearts.

A devout Catholic with an appreciation for life’s finer things, Monica possessed an impeccable sense of style that mirrored the elegance of her spirit. She delighted in shopping trips that were as much about the experience as the purchases themselves—moments filled with laughter and camaraderie. A good glass of red wine often accompanied evenings spent reminiscing about days gone by or sharing stories that brought smiles to those fortunate enough to listen.

Monica’s enduring legacy lies not only in the lives she touched but also in the example she set: a woman who faced loss with grace yet never wavered in offering kindness or lending a listening ear when it was needed most.

In accordance with Monica’s wishes, no services will be held. May those who knew and loved her find comfort in their memories of the remarkable woman she was, whose light shone so brightly despite life’s trials.

Please visit www.macarthurfh.com to share a condolence with Monica’s family.