Margaret "Mickey" A. (Del Padre) Gardella

74, of Pawtucket, RI, passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at her home. She was the beloved wife of the late Stephen F. Gardella. Born in Warren, Ohio, she was the daughter of the late Arthur and Mary (Bianco) Del Padre.

Mickey graduated from St. Mary’s Academy Bay View, Riverside, RI, and attended Harriman College, Harriman, NY. She was the proud owner of Sassafras Salon in Pawtucket, RI (formerly of Providence), where she built a legacy of artistry and care over many years. A gifted hairstylist, Mickey’s talents extended far beyond the chair—she was an exceptional professional who competed and won multiple awards in design competitions, showcasing her creativity and precision in hairstyling.

Her passion for her artistry was evident in every cut, color, and style she created. Mickey also shared her skills with compassion, offering hairstyling services to patients and residents in local nursing homes, bringing joy and confidence to those she served. She cherished her clients deeply, and they treasured her not just as a stylist but as a confidante and friend.

She was a woman of many passions and talents. She loved boating, spending peaceful days on the water with family and friends. She was an avid knitter who was happiest in creating knitted clothing, sewing all her curtains for her home and boat, as well as other creative crafts. Mickey loved cooking, baking, and gardening, where her culinary creations and flourishing gardens brought joy to all who knew her.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Nadine M. Otrando of Oakland, RI; cherished grandchildren Brittani Oxx, Stephanie Oxx; and great-grandchildren Toby King, Amara King, and Savanna Deveau. She will also be missed by her dear sisters Elizabeth Del Padre (Kenneth J. Filarski) of Cranston, RI, and Kathleen Goldberg (Bruce) of Philadelphia, PA, as well as her nieces and nephews Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Kenneth A. Filarski, Bryan Goldberg, Michael Goldberg, and Rachel Goldberg-Maringer.

Her Funeral Service will take place on Saturday, January 11th, at 11:00 a.m. in the Nardolillo Funeral Home & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston. VISITING HOURS will be Friday, January 10th, from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to McAuley Ministries, Sponsored by The Sisters of Mercy, PO Box 73195, Providence, RI 02907 (https://mcauleyri.org).