Carmela Menendez

Carmela Menendez, age 85, of Clearwater, Florida, went home to be with the Lord on February 20, 2025. Born on July 5, 1939, in Arienzo, Caserta, Italy, to Maria and Clemente Perrotta, Carmela was the eldest of five siblings. At the age of 12, she immigrated with her family to the United States, where she began a new chapter of life filled with faith, love, and resilience.

In her youth, Carmela worked as a seamstress, a craft she mastered and carried with her throughout her life, stitching together not only fabric but also the bonds of family and community. Her hands were a testament to her care, whether crafting, cooking, praying, or comforting those she loved.

Carmela was a devoted and loving wife to her husband, Elias Menendez, and a treasured mother to her three children: Francis "Frank" Murray, Laura (Murray) Harrison, and Elias "Eli" Menendez.

In 1994, Carmela and Elias settled in Clearwater, Florida, where they became cherished, long-time members of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Her deep faith shone brightly in her daily life, as she devoted countless hours to prayer and service, reflecting her profound love for the Lord.

Carmela found joy in life’s simple blessings: spending time in prayer, watching classic TV shows and Hallmark movies, listening to music, and marveling at the beautiful sunsets at the local pier. Above all, she treasured moments with her family, offering warmth, empathy, and wise counsel to all who sought her gentle presence.

Carmela is survived by her loving husband, Elias Menendez; her children, Francis "Frank" Murray and his wife Joanne, Laura Harrison and her husband John, and Elias "Eli" Menendez and his wife Kimberly; her grandchildren, Nicole Bruno and her husband Mark, Nicholas Harrison and his wife Laurel, Tyler Harrison and his girlfriend Riley, and Emmet Menendez; her siblings, Antionette, Josephine, Anna, Michelle, and Ronald "Ronnie"; and a cherished circle of nieces, nephews, and cousins who will forever hold her memory dear.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Maria and Clemente Perrotta, whom she has now joined in the presence of the Lord.

A gathering of family and friends will be held at Sylvan Abbey Funeral Home on Saturday, March 8, 2025, beginning at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM, a graveside service at 12:00 PM, and a reception afterward to celebrate her life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made to St. Jude’s Foundation in Carmela’s memory, honoring her generous spirit and love for helping others.