Marnelle Ranta

Marnelle (Calderara) Ranta, 84, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, surrounded by love. Marnelle lived a life rich in curiosity, compassion, and quiet wisdom.

A longtime resident of Canton, Connecticut, and most recently Conway, South Carolina, Marnelle proudly dedicated over 40 years to her work as a hospital laboratory technician. Her career reflected her deep passion for science and her lifelong desire to help others-two values that guided her life and inspired those around her.

Marnelle was a lifelong learner and a natural teacher. Whether sharing her love of birds, tending to her garden, painting vivid scenes from nature, or passing along her enthusiasm for trivia, puzzles, and science fiction, she delighted in learning and in passing that joy on to others. Her quiet strength, sharp wit, and gentle encouragement made her a beloved presence in every room.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 58 years, Glenn Ranta; her sister, Janice Tapper Beaton; and her parents, Bruno and Althea Calderara. Marnelle is survived by her children: son Dr. Jeffrey Ranta and his wife Sherri of Conway, SC; daughter Pamela Doran and her husband Tom of Sewickley, PA; and daughter Amy Ranta of Danielson, CT. She was a devoted and loving grandmother to Ashley Chin, Dr. Joshua Ranta, Dr. Sarah Doran Glaser, Christopher Doran, and Andrew Doran, and great-grandmother to Diana Glaser. She also leaves behind her cherished nephews, Richard Tapper, David Tapper, and Jamie Tapper.

Marnelle's legacy lives on in the lives she touched-with kindness, with knowledge, and with love. Her family will carry forward her spirit of inquiry, creativity, and compassion.

A private memorial will be held by the family. In honor of Marnelle, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105, a cause she held close to her heart.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Shauna, Joanie, and Renee at the Fresenius Kidney Care Dialysis Center in Conway, SC for their compassionate treatment and outstanding care of their mother. Your kindness and dedication meant the world to her-and to us.