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Geraldine "Gerry" Ann Mele, 84, of Benwood was called home on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at Wheeling Hospital surrounded by her family.
Gerry was born on October 22, 1938 to the late Stephen and Tillie (Sulek) Porch in Wheeling, WV.
A Catholic by faith, Gerry was a member of St. John's Church in Benwood where she dedicated over 50 years of service. She served on the Rosary Alter Society, Christian Service Committee and the church anniversary committees. She spent countless hours volunteering for various fundraisers for not only the church but also the former St. John's school.
Gerry was retired from the former Lynn's Hallmark in Moundsville. In her early years, she was instrumental in creating the Benwood Water Works where she became their first water clerk. During her time as clerk, she met her future husband, who was a police officer for the city. Gerry was a member of the American Legion Post 46 and VFW Ladies Auxiliaries. She was also a member of the former Italian American Mothers Club. She served a brief term on the Benwood City Council filling the seat of her husband, Guy, after his death.
In addition to her parents, Gerry is preceded in death by the love of her life, Guy, who she has been waiting to reunite with since 1988.
Surviving are her children Lynette (Vincent) Banks of Wheeling, Steve (Nancy) Mele of Wheeling and Curt (Dana) Mele of Benwood; Grandchildren, Mikey, Keith "Noldy", Tiffane, Ashley, Lexi and Abbey; 14 Great- grand- children; Brothers, Charles "Chic" Porch of Wheeling and Thomas Porch of Benwood; several nieces, nephews, cousins and a very special niece Kitty Lavender Pazyk.
Family and friends will be received on Thursday, March 9, 2023 from 2-8pm at Altmeyer Funeral Home, Benwood/McMechen Chapel, 214 Marshall St., McMechen, WV. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, March 10, 2023, 11am at St. John's Catholic Church in Benwood with Rev. Doney Chacko as celebrant. Interment to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Wheeling. Vigil service will be Thursday at 7:30 pm.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.altmeyerfuneralhomes.com.