07/09/2025
Laura Mancine, 66, passed away on June 12, 2025 in Tampa, Florida after a courageous battle with cancer. Her beloved son Matthew Segal was at her side. A funeral mass was celebrated at St. Timothy Catholic Church in Lutz, Florida.
Born and raised in South Euclid, Ohio, Laura was the daughter of Ben and Evelyn Mancine. She was a proud graduate of Charles F. Brush High School where she developed many life-long friendships. She worked in Cleveland for several years at IMG Women’s Sports, assisting Nancy Lopez and Martina Navratilova, among other clients. After moving to Los Angeles, Laura helped produce the American Gladiators TV series. Moving finally to the Orlando area, Laura became Public Relations Manager for Wyndham Palace at Walt Disney World and later, Public Relations Director for Universal Orlando.
With the birth of her son Matthew, Laura found her true calling as a devoted mother. She devoted herself to this new role enthusiastically; the most challenging and rewarding experience of her life.
Laura’s love of animals was legendary, as she gave food and shelter to a succession of stray dogs. Nothing got her so angry so quickly as cruelty to animals of any type. After taking her son to Busch Gardens of Tampa for many visits, Laura developed a particular connection to the gorillas there. Many years later, for what turned out to be Laura’s last outing, Matthew took Laura back to see the gorillas.
Laura loved to laugh and loved making her family, co-workers, and friends laugh along with her. But she had a thoughtful and deeply spiritual side as well. Days spent at the beach, outings with her son or friends, the thrill of roller coasters, and cooking for family – these were among her greatest joys. She truly loved life, and lived it to the fullest.
Laura is survived by her mother Evelyn; son Matthew Segal (Jacki); sister Elizabeth Petro (Jim); brothers Ben (Anne) and Victor (Renee); five nieces, Amy Langley, Julie Mancine, Elise Morris (Mike), Caitlin Petro, and Corrynn Mancine; and grandniece Claire Morris.
Her family wishes to thank the doctors and staff at Tampa’s Moffitt Cancer Center
for their skill and compassion during Laura’s treatment.
Rest in peace, dear Laura