Robert Martello

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, January 9, 2008

NATCHEZ – Services for Robert Martello, 66, who died Monday, Jan. 7, 2008, at University Medical Center, in Jackson, will be at 1 p.m. Thursday at St. Mary Basilica with the Revs. David O’Connor and Jerry Daniels officiating.

Burial will follow at Natchez City Cemetery under the direction of Laird Funeral Home.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until service time Thursday at the church.

Mr. Martello was born Dec. 27, 1941, in Hattiesburg, the son of Anthony Schittino Martello and Ernestine Elizabeth Mangum Martello. He was a life-long member of St. Mary Basilica, where he served as an usher. He was a retired accountant from Armstrong Tire and Rubber Company and Fidelity Tire Company. In retirement, he became a certified City of Natchez tour guide and worked for Elderhostel Tours. He was a member of the Krewe of Phoenix, a life master bridge player and a fantasy football player. His interests included playing cards, walking in the mall, traveling around the country and the world with his wife.

He was a generous, loving and faithful man who will be greatly missed by his friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant brother, Joseph Ernest Martello; aunt, Concetta “Tena” Martello Mitchell; and uncle, William “Willie” Alfred Mitchell.

Survivors include his wife, Diana Dell “Donna” Martello; daughter, Melinda Laird and husband, Allen, all of Natchez; daughter, Robyn Gregg and husband, Justin, both of Vidalia; grandchildren Addison and Anabella Laird and Tyler and Liza Gregg; brother, Gerald Martello and wife, Bernice, their three children and families, all of Baker, Fla.; and a number of cherished cousins.

Pallbearers will be Joe Martello, Marty Martello, Tommy Martello, Chris Martello, Michael Martello, Jay Spitchley, Jeff Spitchley, Justin Spitchley and Richard Walcott.

Honorary pallbearers will be his “mall walking” friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials be made to Cathedral School Foundation, St. Mary Basilica or a charity of choice.

Online condolences may be sent to www.lairdfh.com.