PARRELLA-ILARIA, Carmela

Peacefully at home on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at the remarkable age of 97. She is now reunited with her beloved husband of 70 years, Tommaso (predeceased May 8, 2018). A devoted and cherished mother to Maria Borrelli (late Carmine) and the late Giuseppe “Joe” Parrella-Ilaria (Rocchina). Her legacy lives on through her adored grandchildren: Tom Parrella-Ilaria (Jennifer), Ricky Parrella-Ilaria (Shannon), Cindy Vecchio (Gennaro), Gian-Luca Borrelli (Jennifer), Tanya Borrelli, and Adriana Kairiss (Kevin). She was a proud and loving great grandmother (Big Nonna Mela) to Alyssa (John), Meghan (Cole), Emily, Rikki, Nickolas, Shayna, Isabella, Briella, Ryker, Leah (Noah), Kyla, Alexander, and Vivian. Special Zia of Maria Parrella-Ilaria (Mark Dunn) and Dominic Parrella-Ilaria (late Laurel).

Carmela was born in Picerno, Province of Potenza, in the Basilicata region of Italy. She was the fourth of eight siblings. She is survived by one sister and three brothers in Italy.

Committed to caring for her parents as they aged, Maria looked after her mother through her final years right up to Carmela’s last breath. Carmela passed away in the comfort of her home constantly surrounded by her loved ones. Though many tears were shed, it was a beautiful time where family gathered to share memories, laughs, and meals together. We feel immense gratitude for being part of a life so beautifully lived and privileged to care for Carmela until the very end.

Family and friends are warmly invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Road, 705-945-7758) on Monday, June 2, 2025 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Funeral Mass to be celebrated at St. Jerome’s Church (26 Carmel Road) at 2:00 p.m. with Father Alex Saurianthadathil officiating. Entombment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Carmela’s memory be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, or a charity of your choice.

Maria would like to thank the home healthcare community of Sault Ste. Marie for the kindness, compassion, and care that was given to Carmela. Special thanks to the doctors who looked after Carmela over the years – Dr. Barbeau, Dr. Buehner, and Dr. Booth. Thank you to everyone at ParaMed, Bayshore Home Health, and CBI Home Health, especially Rob, Laurie, Lisa, and Kassie.

Though the pain of losing a loved one leaves an unfillable space, the cherished memories we share provide comfort. Carmela’s warmth, strength, and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be offered at www.northwoodfuneral.com