Community leader honored with ceremonial street renaming in Deer Park

The Town of Babylon has honored the late Barbara Mangano with a ceremonial street renaming in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the funeral service industry and her unwavering dedication to the Deer Park community, the Mangano Funeral Home announced last week.

Barbara Mangano, born on June 12, 1949, in Brooklyn, moved to Deer Park at age 14, bringing with her the values and work ethic instilled during her early years assisting at her grandfather’s funeral home. At just 11 years old, Mangano began helping with small but important tasks, straightening chairs, cleaning after services, laying the foundation for a lifetime of service to others.

In 1971, Mangano broke barriers by becoming the first female licensed funeral director in Suffolk County, a trailblazing achievement that opened doors for generations of women in the profession. Her career spanned decades of service, not only to grieving families but also to a wide array of charitable and civic organizations. She was an active member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Sons of Italy, the South Shore Lions Club, and the Deer Park Business Women’s Professional Club, and supported numerous causes, including Ss. Cyril and Methodius RC Church, Mercy Soup Kitchen, Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital, and the Bowery Mission.

A devoted mother and proud grandmother of six, Mangano cherished time with her family, loved to cook, and embraced her passion for travel. She is remembered most for her loving heart, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to community.

“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,” said Sal Mangano, president of Mangano Family Funeral Home and Barbara’s son.