History

Sarah Fidance Corleto

The Corleto Funeral Home was founded in 1906 by a woman named Sarah Fidance Corleto, the first licensed female funeral director in the State of Delaware. She was the wife of Antonio Corleto, a successful business entrepreneur in what was to become known as Little Italy.  Sarah opened and operated the first funeral home on the corner of 7^th and Lincoln Sts. in west Wilmington’s Little Italy neighborhood. Her business was immediately successful because of Sarah’s kind and dignified manner, and her generosity to a new and vibrant part of Wilmington.

She later moved to California and her husband Antonio assumed the business and operated it until his death in 1930.

In 1931 his son, Nicholas, graduated from mortuary school in Philadelphia, and continued the legacy by established the Nicholas J. Corleto Funeral Home. In 1944 he opened his new facility at 808 North Union St. in the heart of what is still known as Little Italy.

In 1970, Mr. Corleto’s son-in-law, Anthony Latina, also a licensed funeral director, joined him in what became the Corleto-Latina Funeral Home.  Mr. Corleto passed away in 1978. Under the direction of Anthony, the business continues to provide the same dignified and caring service.  Still located at 808 N. Union St. and committed to continue the caring and compassionate personal service this firm was founded on.  The now remodeled facility is over 6000 square feet.  We have maintained the warmth and charm of the 77 year old original home but have added two large additions.  A larger visitation parlor, several beautifully appointed sitting areas and a comfortable coffee lounge.

In 2005 Anthonys son, Salvatore Anthony Latina, joined his father in the business marking four generations of funeral professionals.  Under the guidance of his fathers 44 years of experience, Sal is quickly becoming a leader in his field.  His sensitive nature, genuine concern for others, and professionalism is appearant upon meeting him.

In 2010 the all new Corleto Latina Center was opened directly across the street from the original Funeral Home.   This state of the art, two hundred seat facility was intended to compliment West Wilmington's neighborhood and to better serve our families.

Its uses have included; church services, viewings, funeral ceremonies, lectures, seminars, community meetings, concerts and more.  To take a virtual tour of both facilities click on the link on our home page.

A note from the owner:

Know who you are doing business with…..

Sal and I, along with our dedicated staff, are committed to continue the patient, caring and personal service you have come to expect from one of Delaware's oldest and most trusted names in funeral service.

At the Corleto Latina Funeral Home, you will always be greeted and cared for by one of the owners.