Maria “Ria” Mella, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2023 at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital in Torrington. She was born in Torrington, CT on May 17, 1939 to the late Harwood and Martha Almas. She graduated from Torrington HS in 1957 and went on to work for a number of local companies including Torrington Company and Howmet Corporation. She retired to pursue her life’s passion, caring for her grandchildren. She and her husband enjoyed cruises with friends and family.

She is survived by her husband Kevin Baldwin, her daughter Cheryl Spielman (Rose Dowd), sons Chuck Spielman (Audrey), Ben Spielman (Ann Marie) and Peter Mella. She had 7 grandchildren, Andrew and Julia, Amanda and Meagan, Abby, Anthony and Kody, and one great grandchild Madeline, who were the lights of her life. She is also survived by her sister Sandra Neri and her nieces and nephew. Her sister Marjorie Raspiller predeceased her.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. There will be a private interment at the convenience of the family. Please visit Ria’s Book of Memories at www.vincentfuneralhome.com for online tributes.