Lorraine Mercanti-Erieg

Lorraine Mercanti-Erieg was a radiant presence whose kindness, laughter, and generous heart touched everyone lucky enough to know her.

Born on November 9, 1956, Lorraine was the beloved daughter of Lawrence Mercanti and Maryann Sigismonti. She grew up in Collingdale, where she graduated from Collingdale High School in 1974. Drawn by her deep compassion for others, she went on obtaining a nursing diploma from Roxborough Memorial Hospital School of Nursing and later graduating with honors from Immaculata University with her BSN; beginning a career that would define her life’s purpose. 

Lorraine dedicated over 45 years to caring for others as a nurse, serving at Delaware County Memorial Hospital, Hahnemann Hospital, and later at the University of Pennsylvania, where she worked in oncology. She had a special gift for caring for patients who needed it most, offering not only medical skill but warmth, empathy, and humanity. Nursing was never just a job for Lorraine, it was who she was. 

In 1987, Lorraine married the love of her life, Bobby, and together they built a family. She was a devoted mother to her daughters, Marissa Pento (Jonna) and Cara Ward (Steven), and an adoring grandmother to Jai (11), Adrienne (7), Bodhi (5), and Summer (3), who were the light of her life. Lorraine is also lovingly remembered by her brother, John Mercanti (Anne) as well as countless relatives and friends.  

Lorraine knew how to live fully. She loved days at the beach, cheering on the Eagles, working in her garden, and, most of all, being with her grandchildren. She was truly the life of the party, with a wide circle of friends who cherished her humor, warmth, and magnetic spirit. 

In 2020, Lorraine was diagnosed with a glioblastoma. Defying overwhelming odds, she became part of less than one percent of survivors, a testament to her strength, determination, and fighting spirit. Though complications from radiation later made her ill, Lorraine faced every challenge with courage and grace. 

Lorraine’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she cared for, the family she adored, and the love she gave so freely. She will be remembered for her compassion, her laughter, and the way she made everyone feel seen and loved. She leaves behind a world better for having had her in it, and hearts forever changed by her presence.  

A celebration of her life will be held from 1:00PM until 4:00PM on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at Mendenhall Inn, 323 Kennett Pike, Mendenhall, PA from 1pm-4pm.  All are welcome. (Please RSVP to this e-mail as to your attendance for planning purposes): marissapento@gmail.com 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Brain Tumor Association.  https://give.abta.org/give/261975/#!/donation/checkout

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