Pauline G Mensi

Pauline Gulotta Mensi February 15, 1946 – November 9, 2024

A native and lifelong resident of Gulfport, Mississippi, Pauline Gulotta Mensi was called home to the Lord on November 9, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 15, 1946, she was the cherished only child of Francis “Frank” and Theresa (Alfonso) Gulotta. Pauline attended St. John Catholic School in Gulfport and later graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg.

Initially a shy child, Pauline’s career as a travel agent with Hancock Travel brought out her adventurous spirit and warm personality. Over 15 years, she traveled the world, from Japan to Europe, nurturing a lifelong passion that she shared with her children from an early age. She never met a stranger and delighted in connecting with people everywhere she went, embodying a spirit of exploration and a love for God’s creation.

On November 27, 1976, she married her beloved husband of 48 years, Michael “Mike” Mensi. Their love story began as neighbors growing up around the corner from one another, reconnecting years later and building a life together. They raised two wonderful children, Christopher Joseph (Megan Balhoff) of Baton Rouge, LA, and Theresa Marjorie Mensi of New Orleans, LA. Her three granddaughters—Amelia Marie, Eleanor Grace, and Annie George Mensi—were the lights of her life, and affectionately knew her as “Mama Mia.” Through her marriage, Pauline also gained two stepchildren, Michael Mensi Jr. and David (Amy) Mensi, whom she loved unconditionally.

Pauline and Michael dedicated forty years to building one of Mississippi’s largest and most respected liquor stores, L&M Package Store, originally a small family business started by Michael’s parents in 1966. Pauline was a tenacious businesswoman, admired and respected in the liquor industry. Her knowledge of wines and spirits transformed her love of travel into a way to share the world with her customers. She loved reconnecting with old friends and meeting new ones in the aisles of her store, always eager to share her expertise and make people feel at home.

As a second-generation Italian American, Pauline had a natural talent for cooking and gardening. She loved spending time outside with her plants or in the kitchen, crafting meals from memory “recipes” in true Italian style. A devout Catholic, she was a lifelong parishioner at St. John the Evangelist in Gulfport, where she found joy in her faith community. She was deeply devoted to the rosary and dedicated to serving through her prayer group and her time volunteering in the adoration chapel.

Pauline’s life revolved around her family and bringing joy to others through simple acts of kindness. Even through her battle with Alzheimer’s disease in recent years, her smile and uplifting spirit never waned. Her generous heart and steadfast faith stayed with her until her last moments.

Pauline is survived by her beloved husband, Mike; their children, Christopher Joseph (Megan Balhoff) and Theresa Marjorie Mensi; and her granddaughters, Amelia Marie, Eleanor Grace, and Annie George Mensi. She is also survived by her stepchildren, Michael Mensi Jr. and David (Amy) Mensi, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Theresa Gulotta, and her parents-in-law, Lawrence and Marjorie Mensi of Gulfport.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Legacy Hospice and the many dedicated caregivers who supported Pauline throughout her battle with Alzheimer’s.

A visitation will be held at St. John the Evangelist in Gulfport, Mississippi, on Friday, November 15, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in Pauline’s memory to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, the Mississippi Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, or to a charity of your choice.