Virginia J. "Gena" Mele

Mrs. Virginia J. 'Gena' Mele

Mrs. Virginia J. "Gena" Mele, 87, of Nesquehoning, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025, in her residence. She was the widow of Louis Mele Jr.

Born in Nesquehoning, she was a daughter of the late Fred and Virginia (Bruni) Damiano.

She worked as a seamstress in various garment factories in the area over the years prior to retirement.

A lifelong member of the community, she was a devoted member of the former Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church in the New Columbus section of Nesquehoning, now known as The Shrine of St. Therese of Lisieux.

A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and cherished friend, she was a force of nature, known for her tireless work ethic and unwavering dedication to her family. Her selflessness ensured that her son and loved ones always had what they needed, often placing their well-being above her own.

Though she was the youngest in her family, that never stopped her from stepping into the role of caregiver with pride, strength and boundless love. Wherever she went, people would say to me, "Your mother is so sweet and kind - we love her!" In the words so often shared with love, her life's refrain was: "My son, my son."

Surviving are a son, Louis, and his wife, Chris, of Drums; brothers, Anthony "Kiki" Damiano of Nesquehoning and Baptist Damiano, and his companion, Rose, of Ocean View, DE; grandchildren, Andrea Muchnik, and her husband, Kirill, Samantha Loranger, and her husband, John, and Louis Mele IV, and his fiancée, Amanda Byrd; and great-grandchildren, Madilyn Muchnik, Bradley Muchnik and Sage Loranger.

She was also predeceased by a brother, Joseph Damiano; and sisters, Philomena Gogal, Michelina Eremus and Josephine Oliveria.

Services: Services for Gena will be private. Services and arrangements have been placed in the care of the Bruce A. Nalesnik Funeral Home, 57 W. Center St., Nesquehoning Interment will be at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Nesquehoning. Contributions in her name may be made to the Shrine of St. Therese of Lisieux, c/o the funeral home, 18240. Online condolences and remembrances of Gena may be expressed at www.nalesnikfh.com.