Obituary of Dominica Racanelli

Dominica Racanelli a/k/a Aunt Minnie was born in Sannicandro di Bari, Italy on January 16, 1926, and came to America when she was 11 years old. Dominica was one of four children

She was a devoted Catholic and was a novice to the Sisters of Notre Dame but unfortunately became very ill and had to leave the convent to be cared for by her family. In 1951, Dominica became a teacher and continued her education to receive a Master’s Degree in Specialty Reading. She first taught first grade at St Joseph School in New York City. Dominica then became a Remedial Reading Teacher at Central Islip Public School. In 1958 she became a Remedial Reading Teacher at St. Mary’s Manhasset and St. Peter’s of Port Washington. Dominica then continued to teach Reading at Port Washington Public School where she retired due to her cardiopulmonary illness.

Dominica moved to Florida in 1978 where she spent many wonderful and happy years. She had many special friends that she enjoyed sharing many activities with including senior yoga. She lived in Boca Raton until she had to return home and be cared for by all her nephews and nieces and their families.

Dominica was devoted to God and her family. She was the most gentle, kind and compassionate person and loved everyone for who they were. She never discriminated.

She loved to read and pray and spend time with those she loved. She loved to help all children learn to read in order that they may achieve their peak potential in school.

She spent most of her time praying for her family and friends that were fighting some type of sickness or needed a special pray for one reason or another. She said the rosary every day and when she took ill and could not attend church watched the mass every morning.

Aunt Minnie always had a sweet sparkle in her eye and always kept a positive attitude.  She will be missed by her family and friends.

Aunt Minnie famous words “May God’s Will be done”

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to : St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place  Memphis, TN 38105, www.stjude.org or to Long Island Alzheimer's Foundation, 1025 Old Country Rd., Suite 115, Westbury,NY 11590, www.liaf.org.