Cesidio Gene “Jess” Mancini, 69, of Morgantown, passed away late Friday evening, Jan. 20, 2023, at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital surrounded by loving family and friends.
He was born in Morgantown on Feb. 10, 1953, a son of the late Antonio and Esther Bossio Mancini.
Jess is survived by his sister, Maria Mancini, of Morgantown; his niece, Alex Yester Leverentz and spouse David Leverentz, of Chicago; his brother-in-law, Gary Yester; as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members and many cherished friends. Jess was also a proud godfather to many.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Geniale and Antonia Bossio; and his paternal grandparents, Jesse and Maria Mancini.
Jess graduated from Morgantown High School and earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from West Virginia University and was a proud member of Phi Kappa Sigma Fraternity. He held several positions at WVU, including controller and the position of associate dean of the College of Business and Economics, from which he retired in 2015, celebrating 39 years of service with WVU. During his career, he used his education and experience to mentor several students and young entrepreneurs.
He was former owner of Postnet and Martin’s Barbeque, and was most recently the co-owner of Tazikis Mediterranean Grill at Suncrest Town Center. He was a member of St. Mary Roman Catholic Church in Star City.
Jess enjoyed a long history of cherished friendships, including the members of a weekly Friday lunch group that he always looked forward to attending.
Special thanks and appreciation are extended to those who provided care and support, especially Dr. Russell Biundo and Maxine Whyte, Rachel Heckler, the team of Right at Home and many others.
Friends may join the family to honor Jess’s life and legacy at St. Mary Roman Catholic Church, 3346 University Ave., Star City, from 3-7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 26 and again from 10 a.m. until the celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 27 with the Rev. Father John P. McDonough as celebrant. Entombment will follow in St. Mary’s Peace Garden Mausoleum.
While flowers are welcome, contributions in Jess’s memory can be made to St. Ursula’s Food Pantry, PO Box 18, Pursglove, WV 26546.
Smith Funeral & Cremation Care of Westover/Morgantown is providing care and guidance to the family.
Condolences:
www.smithfcc.com
