Assunta "Sue" Maria Debello Merlino

Assunta "Sue" Maria DeBello Merlino

Assunta "Sue" Maria DeBello Merlino, 96, of Erie, passed away on Wednesday, May 19, 2016. She was born October 19, 1919 in Erie, a daughter of the late Dominico Antonio and Celia DeNino DeBello.

Sue was a graduate of St Michael's Catholic School and attended night school to learn business administration. She was employed as a clerk, typist and bookkeeper at Seaway Manufacturing.

Sue enjoyed cooking (she had the best sauce and meatballs) and feeding people. She also enjoyed knitting, needlepoint, taking long walks, laughing, getting her hair done, reading, watching emergency shows and Judge Judy.

She loved children and all animals; especially dogs and her tropical fish.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Samuel James Merlino who passed away on May 14, 1992. They were married in Ripley, New York on May 21, 1938. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Lillian DeBello Caruso and brother, Nick DeBello.

She is survived by her son, Samuel Joseph Merlino; grandchildren, Scott Merlino, Darcie Lee Ellis and Kimberly Ann Carnicelli; and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by many nieces, including special nieces; Letty Mead, Samantha Covatto, Elsie Pasquino and Josie Sawyer and many nephews, including special nephews; Tom Covatto, Jimmy Caruso and David Lord (Brother Isaiah.)

No calling hours were observed. Burial was private in Calvary Cemetery. The John R. Orlando Funeral Home, Inc., 2122 Raspberry Street, handled arrangements.

A special thanks to her care givers and friends; Cheryl, Wendy, Becca, Monika, Lucy, Dale and Dr. Bob. Also a special thank you to Saint Mary's at Asbury Ridge for their great care.

Donations can be made to A.N.N.A Shelter, 1155 East 10th Street, Erie, PA 16511 or to the Erie Humane Society ,2407 Zimmerly Rd., Erie, PA 16506.