Lorraine E. Emmi
Lorraine E. Emmi, 97, of the Town of Owasco, passed away peacefully at her home with her loving and devoted family by her side on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
Lorraine was born in Auburn, New York, the daughter of the late Lawrence and Mary Carmela (Donofrio) Mentillo. Lorraine was a remarkable woman whose life was defined by her love for her family and friends, her unwavering ambition, dedication, and an undeniable zestful work ethic. Her dedication, integrity, and a deep love for people was endless. Alongside her beloved husband and her children Dan & Cheri, they co-founded and built Emmi’s Realty, a trusted family business that thrived for 52 years, grounded in hard work, compassion, and genuine relationships within the community. Her contributions did not go unnoticed. She was honored as a 2024 inductee into the Nationwide Registries for Women of Distinction for demonstrating superior expertise, leadership, and professional excellence in her field. Her dedication and tenacity set the standard in the industry. She was the kind of professional who was admired by colleagues and peers alike. Her kindness and willingness to always help others and find solutions to the questions was most noble and highly respected. She has made a significant difference in the profession and always practiced with grace and in good character.
Lorraine was also locally recognized for being an inspiring woman in business and the proud recipient of the 2024 Phyllis Goldman Encouragement Award. Year after year, she was also voted best of the region, a true testament to the respect and admiration she earned. Her greatest legacy, however, lives on through the values she instilled: kindness, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to others, which will continue to guide all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.
Prior to her 52-year real estate career, she was employed with Poolises Restaurant, Ginsberg Dress Shop, General Electric, and was a self-employed beautician and owner of Lorraine’s Beauty Salon. Beyond her professional achievements, Lorraine will be remembered most for her vibrant spirit. She was full of energy and spunk and approached life with enthusiasm and joy. She found her greatest joy in the simple pleasures of life and the people she loved most. She deeply loved her family and treasured every moment together, especially the precious time spent with her newest great-grandchild, Brooks, who brought her endless pride and joy.
Her kitchen was the heart of her home, where she lovingly prepared her signature Italian dishes for family and friends. Her table was always full, not just with food, but with laughter and love. She was incredibly generous and knew no bounds. She continuously gave of herself, whether it was through a warm meal or helping those in need. She was a devoted NY Yankees fan and cheered them on with true loyalty. She especially enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s sporting events, most notably hockey, where she could be found in the stands, offering unwavering support and pride. She loved each and every one of the players. They even brought her in the locker room before a sectional playoff game, stood her up on the bench, and listened to her pep talk. The team then went on to win the sectionals and advance to States, eventually becoming State Champions. That was truly a memory she will never forget. She also loved boating on Owasco Lake, enjoying peaceful days with the family. She loved her companionship with her beloved kitty who never ever left her side. Her life was filled with love, laughter, and the special moments she shared with those closest to her. She found joy and excitement in trips to the casino, where she especially loved playing the penny slots. She never refused an invite to go and delighted in every spin and celebrated the fun of the game.
Lorraine is survived by her son, Dan Emmi (Mary Ellen Casper); daughters Cheri (Charlie) Stebbins & Marianne (Henry) Penello; grandchildren, Chaz (Drew) Stebbins-Williams, Tyler (Alayna) Stebbins, & Jennifer Penello; a beloved great-grandchild she adored so deeply, Brooks Michael Stebbins; sister Geri Kay; cherished niece and nephew, Judi and Johnnie Pelc; devoted niece Mary Ann Kuczek; sisters-in-law, Rose Mailloux, Rita Canas, Robin Emmi; a brother-in-law, Jim Emmi.
Lorraine was predeceased by her loving husband and high school sweetheart of 66 years, Sam J. Emmi in 2014; her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law & spouses; Alfred (Audrey) Emmi, Anthony (Natalie) Emmi, Frank (Anita) Emmi, Steve (Mary Anne) Emmi, Nancy (Bob) Avery, Josephine Kuczek & Margarie (Norman) Quill, Mary Emmi; brothers-in-law, Michael Emmi, William Mailloux, Joseph Canas, and Don Carnevale; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and recently, a dear close extended family member, Cathy Sleger.
Lorraine’s family would like to personally thank Mary Ellen Casper for a lifetime of unwavering love and devotion she gave to Lorraine. The family respectfully requests the omission of flowers. They invite you to celebrate Lorraine’s life by extending kindness, offering support, or helping someone in need. Should you choose to donate in her memory, contributions may be made to The Auburn Police Department, Tunnel to Towers, Finger Lakes SPCA of CNY, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Calling hours will be held Monday, July 20 from 10 AM to 1 PM at St. Francis of Assisi Church with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 1:15 PM. A private family burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Please visit www.Langhamfuneralhomellc.com to share a memory or leave a condolence. Lorraine leaves behind a legacy abundant in kindness and inspiration. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lorraine E. Emmi, please visit our floral store.