Serene Mazzella

Serene “Cee Cee” (Martin) Mazzella, 86, of South Bend, Indiana, closed the final chapter of her life beautifully on September 1, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness surrounded by the family she loved so dearly. Serene was happiest when she was taking care of her family.

Born on May 31, 1940, in New York, New York, Serene lived a life deeply rooted in the things that mattered most to her in life: family and the joy of a shared meal. Serene was a constant source of warmth, guidance and unconditional love. There was no greater joy than having her home filled with laughter, stories and the presence of her grandchildren and loved ones. She was very thankful for her stepson, Chris, who was a dedicated caregiver and provided kindness and support.

Serene was a passionate cook and enjoyed her pasta. She also never met a piece of chocolate cake she didn’t like and believed that life was too short to skip dessert and always had candy in her pockets. She enjoyed preparing meals for her family and poured her heart into every dish she made. In one legendary moment, when she and her sister, Pam, couldn’t agree on who would cook the roast for dinner, Serene settled the debate once and for all and tossed the roast over the balcony, hopefully someone got to enjoy the roast!

An avid reader, Serene could almost always be found with a book in her hand. One of her favorite authors was James Patterson. She would spend countless hours untangling his mysteries and she really enjoyed listening to Frank Sinatra.

Most of all she loved her family. She was always there when they needed her. She was a nurturer, a caregiver, and the person so many people could count on. She had a way of making everyone feel important, and her family knew they always had a place with her.

Serene will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her sweet spirit, and her wonderful sense of humor.

Serene is survived by her sister, Starr (Hisham) Bawab; her niece, Starr (Brian) Beecher of South Bend; her stepson, Chris Catenacci; and her cherished granddaughters, Angelina and Giavana, who reside in Florida. Serene was preceded in death by her son, Troy Mazzella; her partner of over 30 years, Eugene Catenacci; her parents, Charles and Elizabeth Martin; and her sisters, Pam (Jack) Ontengco, Cheryl (Randy) Greene, and Candace (Ray) Hornberger.

In keeping with Serene’s wishes, there will be no services.

Memorial contributions may be made to Pet Refuge, 4626 S. Burnett Dr., South Bend, IN 46614 (petrefuge.com), or the St. Vincent de Paul Society, 100 W. South St., Suite 100, South Bend, IN 46601 (svdpsb.org).

To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit mcgannhay.com