Darnell Mangipano LeBlanc

Darnell Mangipano LeBlanc passed away on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at the age of 75. She leaves behind her beloved husband of 31 years, Kenneth LeBlanc. She is preceded in death by her parents, Anthony and Catherine Simmons Mangipano. Even though Darnell was an only child, she was like a sister to her many cousins, in-laws, and dear friends.

 Darnell leaves behind many members of the LeBlanc and Mangipano families. And, although she never bore children of her own, Darnell was a strong, nurturing presence as a mother-like figure for many of her nieces and nephews. She treated them as if they were her own. Darnell is a class of 1967 graduate of F.T. Nicholls High School, and was the co-chair of the 50th class reunion.

 Darnell was a 5 time president of the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary, past president of Louisiana XI Master Chapter of Beta Sigmi Phi, Vice President of the St. Joseph’s Women’s Club, past President of the East Jefferson City Council Beta Sigma Phi, co-chairman of the 1988 Louisiana State Convention of Beta Sigma Phi, member of the VFW Post 6640 Auxiliary, and a recipient of the Order of St. Louis IX Medallion. She was also queen of the Les Femmes d’Orleans Mardi Gras Club in 2010.

 Darnell was an avid New Orleans Saints and LSU fan. She and her husband had Saints season tickets for 17 years. In the early years of her marriage with Kenneth, they took every opportunity to travel the world - whether by plane or cruise ship – and enjoyed sharing their adventures with those around them.

Relatives and Friends of the Family are invited to attend the Visitation at MOTHE FUNERAL HOME, 2100 Westbank Expy, Harvey, LA on Friday, October 25, 2024 from 6 PM until 9 PM and again on Saturday, October 26, 2024 from 9 AM until 12 PM. The Funeral Mass will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Gretna, LA at 1 PM. Interment Lakelawn Cemetery, Metairie, LA.  There will be a repast to follow for family and friends to attend. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the American Association of Kidney Patients, the National Kidney Foundation, or another charity of your choice.