On Tuesday, December 23, Nancy Ellen DiMella (Whittle), 76, of Ledyard, passed away peacefully in her home. Nancy was born on April 4, 1938 to John and Anne Whittle. She was raised on her family farm on Burnett's Corners in Mystic. Nancy was a graduate of Fitch Senior High School, and a Licensed Practical Nurse, who worked at Backus Hospital for 25 years, notably in the Oncology department, before retiring in 1999. An avid reader, she enjoyed teaching and playing cards with her immediate and extended family. Nancy cared about current events and took interest in liberal politics. A loyal Red Sox and Patriots fan, she spent the last 14 winters as a "snowbird" in Hollywood, Florida. Always looking forward, with her courageous spirit, she fought to regain mobility after the loss of her lower leg.
A beloved wife of Anthony Dominick DiMella of 58 years, a loving mother, mother-in-law, and an adored Grandmother, Nancy was the matriarch of the family she raised in Ledyard, and took immense pride in her family and supported them in every way. She is survived by her six children, Lisa Couture (Thomas) of Jewett City, Anthony DiMella Jr. of Groton, Lynne McPherson (James) of Stonington, Peter DiMella (June) of Preston, Robert DiMella (Victoria) of Princeton, NJ, and Vincent DiMella (Monika) of Ledyard; twelve grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildern; siblings John Whittle of Costa Rica, Patricia Coombe of Mystic, Ann Burgess of Ledyard and Peter Whittle of Mystic. Nancy will also be sadly missed by her extended family Mary Thurlow, Rose DiMella Manchester, George DiMella (Anne) and Fred DiMella (Valerie).
You will always be in our hearts, and forever missed Nance, Mom, Grandma.
The family will be holding a Celebration of Nancy's life at the Mystic VFW, Saturday December 27th from 1:00 to 4:00pm. There will not be a memorial service or calling hours.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Ledyard Public Library, 718 Colonel Ledyard Highway, Ledyard, CT 06339.