Lia Zingales

Lia Zingales (nee Drago), age 94, passed away January 2, 2022. Born in Cleveland but raised in Longi, Sicily, Lia, as a young adult newlywed, left behind the only life she knew in Sicily to return to Cleveland and pave the way for her husband and parents to join her in America. She was a kind, loving and generous soul, always giving her time and energy to help others and never thinking of herself. She raised three wonderful daughters to honor, respect, and care about others, just as she did. She also gave them a love of their Italian heritage which is strong in them to this day. She made her way in Cleveland as a talented, creative seamstress and dressmaker, often making wedding dresses and party dresses for her daughters and their friends, altering suits for her husband and the men in her life including her sons-in-law.

Rest In Peace, our sweet mom, and join your husband, Paul, who has made a home for you in heaven. Lia is preceded in death by husband Paul Zingales M.D., baby daughter Carmen Zingales, mother Angela Drago (Brancatelli), father Francesco Drago, sisters Sara Bellissimo, Angela Franchina, Frances Militi, and Giovanna Basile. She is survived by sister Concettina Amato, daughters Lillian Zingales Weaver (Christopher), Mary Linda Rivera (Carmen), and Joyce Ann Schafle (Harvey). Beloved Grandmother of Nicole Rivera (Jimmy), Paul Blair (Erin Rose), Allison Rivera Quinoñez (Adrian), Elise Blair Rietz (Ryan), Kyle Schafle (Amanda), Angelia Rivera, and Maria Schafle (Aaron). Proud great-grandmother of Nate, Leo, Nella, Oliver, Mia, Cooper, and Elijah.

Interment All Souls Cemetery. Mass of Christian Burial 10 am Saturday at Holy Rosary Church. FRIENDS MAY CALL AT THE MAHER MELBOURNE FUNERAL HOME, 5236 Mayfield Rd, Lyndhurst (East of Richmond Road) FRIDAY FROM 3 TO 8 pm.

Instead of flowers, donations can be made in her name to Cleveland Sight Center, 1909 E 101st St, Cleveland, Ohio 44106