Leda Scognamiglio, born on May 2, 1936, in Zara, Italy, as the first child of Paola (Rerecich) and Giordano Del Conte, peacefully passed away on February 20, 2025, in Clearwater, Florida, after bravely facing a long battle with Alzheimer’s. She is survived by her four children Georgette Ortiz (Mario), Sergio Scognamiglio (Mickey), Laura Scognamiglio (Rich), and Sandra Delany (Matthew). Leda was lovingly known as Nonna to her four grandchildren Yve Lepkowski, Max Lepkowski, Antonio Scognamiglio, and Rebecca Delany, and one great grandchild Jameson Alvarez-Scognamiglio. She is also survived by her younger sisters, Alcea Sprung and Marisa Caler, brother Ray Del Conte, and many nieces and nephews, cousins, and extended family and friends all of whom she loved dearly. Her loving husband, Giorgio “George” Scognamiglio, and her later life partner, Charles Prizzi, preceded her in death.
Leda with her mother and three siblings immigrated to the USA from Italy in 1950, after Giordano’s untimely death. As the oldest, she helped to support her family and worked in an embroidery factory in Fairview, NJ. It was there that she met the love of her life, George. Together they built a wonderful home and life in Cliffside Park, then Little Ferry, New Jersey. Leda was widowed in 1974 and although heartbroken, with her strong spirit and dedication to her children she continued to embrace life. Leda’s vibrant spirit and strength always looked for the bright side and spread positivity. She was so proud of her Italian heritage, and loved when she met fellow Italians she could speak with in her native language. And if you didn’t speak Italian, she was an enthusiastic teacher. Leda also took great pride in becoming an American citizen and loved this country.
Always beautiful inside and out, and forever elegant, most of all Leda loved to laugh, dance, sing, and spend time with her family having fun. With her vibrant smile and warmth, she made friends wherever she went and touched the lives of all who knew her, offering love, kindness, and unwavering support. Leda’s children and family were her life. Her mission was to make the world happy and spread joy often with her wonderful cooking. Her kitchen was the heart of her home where family and friends gathered for Sunday dinners of delicious homemade meals lovingly prepared and always served with wine. Last minute guests, no problem. There was always room at her table for everyone.
Though we mourn her passing, we find comfort knowing that Leda is now at peace. Goodbye to a beautiful, strong woman, mother, and loving nonna. We miss her dearly and are grateful for the time we had with her and the love we shared. Her amazing spirit will continue to guide us and the many wonderful memories and love we shared will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Always happy, always beautiful, always in our hearts. Ti vogliamo bene per sempre.
Service Information:
Venue for Service: Live Oak Park Address for Service: Crystal Beach, Florida Phone number attendees can reach out to for service: 917-671-6913 Pick one service type: Funeral Service Service Date: 2025-02-22 Service Start Time: 10:00 am
