Obituary of Olga Marie Filippi

Olga Marie Filippi It is with heavy hearts that we announce the recent passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Olga Marie (Simonelli) Filippi. Born on January 28, 1928, she was the proud daughter of the late James and Rosa (Iavarone) Simonelli. Olga graduated from Strong Vincent High School and pursued her passion for retail fashion by working at Leed’s Dress Shop. She soon married the love of her life, Leno (Phil) Filippi, on April 30, 1950. Olga’s life was centered around her family and faith, and stepping into her home, you could feel the presence of both in every corner. Their house, lovingly built by her dear husband Phil, was anchored by the kitchen, truly the heart of their home. For Olga, cooking was not a task-it was a language of LOVE. The rich aroma of Italian cuisine filled the air, and family gatherings were always lively, filled with laughter and the joyous shouts of “mangia!” Friends were always considered an extension of her family, and the more opportunities to celebrate and share love, the better. Olga was also a woman of great determination and tireless work ethic. She was an active member of the Saint George Rosary Society for years, spent countless hours tending to her beautiful gardens, and took on home projects that many would shy away from. After her children were grown, Olga returned to her zeal for fashion and worked happily within the Millcreek Mall until retiring at 75. Olga took every opportunity to visit her children and families, bringing lasting memories to all. In her later years, Olga brought joy to Fairview Manor, greeting friends and staff with waves, compliments on their outfits, and always lifting their spirits. She is survived by her siblings including her best friends and sisters Lucille Sitzler and Gloria Metzgar, and her brother James Simonelli (Kathy); sister-in-law Tess Simonelli, her five children: Pam Meighan (John), Christine Filippi (Carolyn Byrne), Leno Filippi (Jennifer), Darryl Filippi (Paula), and Matthew Filippi (Roberta); and her cherished grandchildren: Olivia Filippi, Thomas Meighan (Anna), Phillip Meighan (Eva), Sofia Filippi, Pamela Marie Meighan, Sgt. Andre Filippi serving our country in Iraq (Sara), Siena Filippi, Alex Filippi, Luciano Filippi, Maleah Filippi, and Jovani Filippi. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Marcella and Alden Meighan, Aurora and Emilia Filippi, and Rachel, Ethan, and Kyle Byrne, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Olga was preceded in death by her husband Leno Joseph Filippi, and her brothers Fred and Frank Simonelli. She was also predeceased by her in-laws Teresa Simonelli, Fred Sitzler, Carney Metzgar, Vincent and Lena Filippi, Lelio and Angie Filippi, and Tony and Louise Bertone. Olga will be deeply missed. Yet, amid the sadness, we find comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her husband, Leno, and all those she regularly held dear in prayers. Family and friends are invited to Dusckas-Martin Funeral Home (4216 Sterrettania Road, Erie, PA 16506) Friday January 10, 2025 from 4pm-7pm. Mass at Saint George Catholic Church will be held Saturday, January 11, 2025, 10am. Christian burial to follow at Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Olga’s name to either of the following: St. Vincent Hospital School of Nursing (https://www.supportahn.org/site/Donation2?df_id=1529&mfc_pref=T&1529.donation=form1) St George School https://sgs.eriecatholic.org/advancement/additional-gift-opportunities https://www.juliahpc.com/donate St George School https://sgs.eriecatholic.org/advancement/additional-gift-opportunities