Reda Anna Marella's Obituary
Reda Anna Marella (nee Lemma), of South Philadelphia, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on January 25, 2021. Born to the late Leonardo and Anna Lemma. She was one day shy of her 92nd birthday.
Reda was the beloved wife of the late Silvio Anthony “Sam” Marella, Jr. of 52 years. Loving mother of Leonard Anthony Marella (Barbara Ann), Lisa Ann “Lee” Chen (Randy C. “El Chino Grande”), and the late Silvio Michael “Sam” Marella III. Cherished grandmother of Heather Lynn Marella (Sandy Bernard), Jamie Bullock (Ben), Samantha Jane Marella (Rich Steven Baxter Jr.), Alexander Jay Chen, and Christopher Jude Chen. Great grandmother of Starr Sophia Hunter, Aubrey Chiann Melton, Clint Anthony Bullock, Sandra Caroline Bullock, Gavin Michael Bullock, James Alan Edwards, and Victoria Paige Baxter.
Reda was predeceased by her siblings, Mae, Carlo, Nicholas, Leonard, Jr., Rose, and Theresa.
Reda graduated from Edward W. Bok Technical High School in June of 1947, where she studied cosmetology. She married the love of her life, “Sam”, the following September and began her family. After raising her family, Reda was able to go back to work as a Beautician. Reda served on the Philadelphia Board of Elections as a polling station staffer for over 25 years.
Even though Reda was a “South Philly Gal” at heart, she spent the last 18 months of her life at Yardley Commons in Voorhees and made many friends who will miss her dearly.
Reda’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren made her the happiest and truly completed her life. She enjoyed going to the casino and loved her scratch-offs. Reda will be remembered as a confidant to many. She was a progressive, a mentor, and had the ability to make anyone feel comfortable and at ease. She was a source of constant reassurance and support to many.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather at Givnish of Marlton, 398 East Main St., on Thursday, January 28th, 6 to 9 pm. A brief interlude for a prayer service and song will begin at 7 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 am on Friday, January 29th, at Stella Maris Catholic Church, 2901 S. 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA, followed by interment in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 240 Lower Landing Rd., Blackwood, NJ.
Masks, social distancing, and crowd restrictions will be strictly followed at the funeral home, church, and cemetery.
To share your fondest memories and condolences, please visit www.Givnish.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Reda?
What’s a lesson you learned from Reda?
Share a story where Reda's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Reda you’ll never forget.
How did Reda make you smile?