Lucia Chieffo Meloro, 96, of Niles died on Wednesday February 1, 2017 at Shepherd of The Valley Nursing Home in Howland.

She was born May 3 1920 in Bagnoli Irpino, Italy the daughter of Domenico and Maria Toriello Chieffo.

"Cietta" as she was affectionately known by family and friends came to The United States in 1954 with her husband and two sons to settle in Niles with family and friends. She was an amazing talented cook and her culinary skills were enjoyed by all who were welcomed unconditionally into her home.

She never tired of sharing stories of life in her village and cherished memories of her family's chestnut farm. She faced overwhelming sadness and struggle during World War II. These life- changing events defined her character, grit, and determined will.

A life rich in pride and heritage, home, family, faith and friends, were at the core of her being. Nothing gave her more pleasure then cooking for her family, crocheting afghans for her grandchildren, knitting countless pairs of Christmas Slippers, keeping house, and attending her church, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Niles. As a member of Mount Carmel for over 60 years she gave of her time freely and willingly to her faith. Helping with the church festival she was a familiar face at the twist pastry table as well as other food concessions in her younger days. She was also a life long member of The Immaculate Conception Society and Infant Jesus of Prague Guild. Her faith gave her a connected resolve of strength and comfort. Unwavering was her quiet devotion. Indeed she was one of the faithful.

Her husband Anthony Meloro whom she married in 1938 died March 23, 1993.

Those left to cherish her memories are her two sons, Angelo Meloro and his wife Donna of Glen Burnie, Maryland and Dominic Meloro and his wife Beth Ann of Howland, a brother Aniello Chieffo of Italy, a sister Geraldine Gatta and her husband Larry of Niles, her cousin Lucy Sherock of Niles, five grandchildren, Diana Parsons and her husband Lou, Angela Randall and her husband James, Katharine Stewart and her husband Ernest, Anthony Meloro and his wife Amy, Ross Meloro and his wife Jessica, nine great grandchildren, Nicholas, Christopher, Julienne, Alyssa, Stephanie, Olivia, Sophia, Oliver, and Desmond. She also leaves several nieces, nephews, and cousins who all affectionately called her "Zizie Cietta", and the children of Mary Pallante, a dear neighbor and friend who recently passed.

She was preceded in death by a daughter Rose Meloro, a brother Jimmy Chieffo, and four sisters, Dora Chieffo, Rose Meloro, Antoinette Chieffo,  and Dolores Gatta

Friends may call Sunday from 2 to 5PM at The Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles where The Mount Carmel Bereavenemt Ministry will conduct prayers at 4:30PM.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10AM Monday at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Niles preceded by a 9:30AM prayers service at the funeral home.

Burial will be in Niles City Cemetery.

Material Contributions can be made to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, 381 Robbins Ave, Niles, Ohio 44446.

The family wishes to acknowledge and thank the staff at Shepherd of The Valley in Howland who helped in her daily care in the last months of life.

Arrangements  are being handled by The Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles.

Family and friends can light a candle, sign the guest book, and send e-mail condolences at www.josephrossifuneralhome.com.