Carmela L. Vatelle, 93, of Newtown, passed away December 9, 2024 peacefully at home.

Carmela was born February 5, 1931, in Stamford, a daughter of Carmelo and Lucia (Citarella) Roda.

She was predeceased by her husband Edward J. Vatelle Jr.

She was a loving sister to Sabbo (Carol) Roda and Anna (Joseph) Gallace and predeceased by Philomena (Antonio) Musacchio, Edith (Daniel) Sileo, Pauline Roda, Frances (Frank) Nigro, Mary Roda, and Elizabeth (Patrick) Russo. She grew up in the family home on Herman Ave in Darien. Carmela was in the color guard for the VFW with her sisters Mary and Frances. Her best friend was her sister Leila.

Carmela was a wonderful mother to her four children Barbara (Stephen) Gribosky, Joseph Simmons. She was also predeceased by Anthony (Tammy) Simmons and Arthur (Mia) Simmons Jr.

Carmela cherished her grandchildren, Steve Tyler, Jason Coperine, Jessica Simmons, Mathew Simmons, Angel Simmons, Alissa Simmons and Amanda Simmons, and all her great-grandchildren.

Carmela was known to her numerous nieces and nephews as Aunt Millie, and she loved them all dearly. She enjoyed many family outings to Candlewood Lake and backyard picnics and holidays.

She loved to cook big family meals, especially Sunday dinner, and was happiest when all her family was around. In her spare time, she loved to read and bird watch. She was famous for baking M&M cookies, making Italian bows and rice pudding. There were many marathon ravioli making sessions with homemade noodles and cavatelli. Carmela enjoyed her evenings out at the American Legion dancing and was an avid bowler on several bowling leagues and won many trophies.

Carmela had a good soul and was kind to anyone in need; she took in many stray children over the years and provided them with a good home. She was a hard worker and had many jobs over the years and retired from Food Emporium, where she was a produce clerk. After that she became the nanny for a wonderful family in Newtown, which led to her relocation.

Carmela liked to travel and spent many summers on the Jersey shore with her kids and over the years traveled to visit her children and grandchildren. She cherished all her friends, and they knew her as Millie. She will be missed by anyone who knew her.

Carmela will be buried at Spring Grove Cemetery in Darien on December 27 at 11 am. Please refrain from sending flowers. Donations can be made to the charity of your choice in memory of Carmela. Anyone attending the service should dress in red, her favorite color.

Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street in Newtown, is serving the family.