Carmelia J. (Artino) Leanza of Lancaster, 87, died March 25 after a brief illness. Her husband the late Edward W. Leanza died in 1995. Before her marriage in October 1950, she worked as a secretary, and in a plant during the World War II effort. After her marriage she was a homemaker and mother of eight children, all surviving.

Mel was a founding member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church and member of the Secular Franciscan Order in Lancaster.

Her children are Patricia (Michael) Brandon, Andrea and Valentia of upstate New York, Stephanie Leanza Welch of Duluth MN, Stacye of Pittsboro NC, Thomas E. and Geniene and husband Elam Zook of Lancaster. Her grandchildren are Jory, Devin, Casey, Alexis, Claire and Soren and one newborn great-grandson, Soli Ayomide. Her surviving sister is Jeanetta Hallaman of Cleveland OH.

Viewing at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 601 Delp Road, Lancaster, PA on March 30 at 10:30 a.m. Funeral Mass at the church at noon with The Rev. Msgr. Richard A. Youtz as Celebrant. Interment following at St. Joseph New Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Catholic Worker House of Lancaster, 1653 Lititz Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601. To send an online condolence or for more information please visit SnyderFuneralHome.com. Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory 717-560-5100