Laura Jean Buonaura's Obituary
Laura Jean Buonaura, 70, of Syracuse, NY, passed away on Friday, June 5, 2026. Born on August 13, 1955, in Queens, NY, Laura spent much of her early life there before moving to Upstate New York, where she lived for the remainder of her years. She shared the last 31 years of her life with her beloved partner and best friend, John Mantor.
Laura was known for her love of cooking and her generosity. No one ever left her home hungry. Her meatballs and homemade sauce were legendary and a favorite among family and friends. Her passion for music and dancing was evident to everyone who knew her. She loved all kinds of music and was often heard singing and rocking out before visitors even reached the front door. Laura also enjoyed watching her favorite movies and television shows time and time again—they never seemed to get old. Those who knew her will always remember her infectious laugh, unwavering stubbornness, generosity, and sharp wit.
While Laura had many passions throughout her life, nothing brought her greater joy than her family, friends, and the people she loved. She was a selfless woman who welcomed everyone with an open heart. Laura taught those around her the value of family, the strength of unconditional love, and the importance of laughter. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and cared for, whether she had known them for years or had only just met them.
Her family and loved ones will forever cherish every lesson she taught, every memory they shared, and every laugh they enjoyed together. There were countless laughs with Laura—also known lovingly as Mom, Mamacita, Grams, Grandma Jeanie, and many other cherished names. The strength, grace, kindness, and love she carried throughout her life will remain with those who knew and loved her forever.
Laura was preceded in death by her mother, Grace Downes; her son, Jeffrey Finn; her nephew, Joseph Buonaura (we know they are celebrating their reunion); and her brother-in-law, Harold Mantor.
She is survived by her beloved life partner, John Mantor; his mother, Mary Mantor; his brother, Gary Mantor (MaryEllen); and his niece, Harmony Mantor.
Laura also leaves behind her sister, Irene Buonaura (John and Bob), and her brother, Anthony Buonaura.
She is survived by her children, whom she loved fiercely, Heather Finn and Jeremy Finn, along with their significant others, Alexandro and Kristyn. If we're being honest, Laura may have loved them more. The favoritism was impossible to ignore.
Laura would also want us to recognize her honorary children, Levi (deceased), Brendi, and Anthony. Once she adopted you into her family, there was no escaping it—and truthfully, you wouldn't have wanted to.
Laura's grandchildren meant the absolute world to her: Trey, Mia, Brionna, Kiera, Marissa, and Deaglan. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren Zayir, Adrian, Amir, and Layla.
Family records may have categorized them differently, but Grandma never did. Keegan, Chantel, Alex Jr., Jessica, and Katareana were loved just the same. Whether by blood, marriage, or love, each of her grandchildren held a special place in her heart.
She is also survived by many cousins, aunts, uncles, extended family and friends—so many friends. She was deeply loved by all who knew her.
Laura Jean Buonaura will be greatly missed. Let us honor this amazing woman by laughing through our tears and celebrating a life filled with love, family, friends, laughter, joy, good food, cold drinks, and loud music.
Visitation will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026 from 1pm – 4pm, immediately followed by a funeral service in celebration of Laura Jean’s life at 4pm at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) N. Syracuse, NY 13212.
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