Rosalie Marie Tremonte Papania, a beloved matriarch of a large and close-knit Italian family, passed away peacefully at her home at the age of 97 on May 18, 2024 in Lake Charles, La. She was known as Mama to most everyone who knew her. Rosalie’s life was a testament to love, family, and cherished memories.

She was married to Lucas Papania for 48 years before he passed away in 1994. They raised six children, Paul, Joanne, Mike, Luke, Chris and David. Her greatest love was for her extensive family. She was a pillar of strength and affection for her six children, 19 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great-grandchildren. Rosalie’s love knew no bounds, and she took pride in knowing each of their names, stories, and adventures until her final days.

She loved Elvis, Frank Sinatra, and a full house. She loved when anyone stopped by for a visit. As a devout member of St. Margaret’s Parish, Rosalie found solace and community in her faith. She cherished her Sundays, where after mass, she would gather her family around the table for her famous spaghetti dinners. Everyone was invited and these gatherings were filled with laughter, love, and the warmth of shared experiences, creating cherished memories that will be treasured by her family for generations to come.

Rosalie’s journey in life was marked by resilience, kindness, and unwavering love. She is mourned by her children, Paul Papania (Sandy), Joanne Schwem (Robert), Michael Papania (Ellen), Lucas Papania (Debbie), Chris Papania (Sandra), and David Papania, and her nephew, Claude Riddell. She is reunited in heaven with her husband, Lucas Papania; her siblings, Veto Tremonte, Ross Tremonte, and Marie Riddell; her parents, grandparents, and two grandchildren, Paul Papania Jr. and Juli Papania Vallette, whom she loved dearly.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at Johnson Funeral Home of Lake Charles, with a rosary, to be led by the family, to be recited at 12 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be observed at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at St. Margaret Catholic Church with Monsignor Harry Greig serving as celebrant. Burial will follow at Consolata Cemetery. 

Her legacy of love, devotion, and family bonds will continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Rosalie Papania’s life was a beautiful melody of love, and her memory will last forever. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Margaret’s Catholic School or the St. Nicholas Center for Children.

Words of Comfort may be expressed to the family at www.johnsonfuneralhome.net.