Anita M. Spagnola

GREENSBORO, NC - Anita Mele Spagnola passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Monday, July 27, 2026.

Born in 1928 to Italian immigrant parents, the late Joseph and Mary Chance Mele, Anita was the youngest of nine children and was raised in Youngstown, Ohio.

After graduating from Chaney High School in 1948, Anita worked at a neighborhood drugstore on Belmont Avenue where she met her future husband. In April 1950, she married Charles Spagnola and embraced her lifelong role as a devoted wife, mother, homemaker, and caretaker for her son, parents, in-laws, many brothers and sisters, and later, her cherished grandchildren.

Anita and Charles were lifelong members of St. Anthony Church in Youngstown. Anita's calm and gentle spirit made her a treasured friend and neighbor. Her phone was always ringing with family and friends calling to chat and simply hear her comforting voice.

In 2007 Anita and Charles moved to North Carolina to be closer to their surviving family. Anita spent her later years enjoying weekly lunches out with her son, and every holiday surrounded by family. Until the end of her life, she delighted in cooking for others, often sharing homemade ricotta pie, spaghetti and meatballs, cornbread, and pumpkin pie.

Blessed with an extraordinary memory, Anita became the keeper of her family's history. Her pristine memory kept their stories and traditions alive. Through her, her family was able to reestablish their connection to the old country.

Anita also took great pride in her independence. For 97 years, she cared for herself and maintained a home that reflected the peace, dignity, and grace with which she lived her life.

She is survived by her devoted son, David Spagnola; her daughter-in-law, Linda; and her beloved grandchildren, Lara and Joe Spagnola, who brought her immeasurable joy. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Anita was also preceded in death by her husband, Charles Spagnola, who passed away July 16, 2016.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Monday, August 3, 2026 at St. Anthony of Padue Church, 1125 Turin Street, Youngstown, Ohio 44510.

Anita will be entombed at Calvary Cemetery.

Professional arrangements are being handled by Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel.