Fortunata "Nina" DeChellis: A Life of Love, Strength, and Dedication

Fortunata DeChellis, affectionately known as Nina, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2024, at the age of 83, surrounded by her loving family. Born on June 26, 1941, in Naples, Italy, she immigrated to the United States in 1958, bringing with her a rich cultural heritage and an indomitable spirit.

Nina was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She was married for almost 62 years to the late Carlo Emilio DeChellis, with whom she shared a life filled with love and devotion. Together, they raised four children: John, Anthony, Robert, and Danny. Nina was also a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren: John, Michael, Chloe, Alex, Tara, Andrew, Sophie, Cole, Barron, and Mason, and cherished her role as a great-grandmother to Caroline.

Her family was the cornerstone of her life, and her home was always filled with laughter, love, and the aroma of her renowned Italian cooking, especially her "Nonna" cookies. Nina's greatest passion was her family. She found immense joy in spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and siblings with whom she shared a deep bond, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Nina also dedicated countless hours knitting caps and blankets for the premature infants born in her community. Her creativity and attention to detail were evident in every stitch, making them treasured keepsakes.

Nina will be remembered for her unwavering love, her unyielding strength, and her boundless generosity. She faced life with a smile, a kind word, and a helping hand for anyone in need. Her legacy of love and compassion will live on through her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Visitation will be held from 5-7pm, Monday, July 22, 2024 at Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home, 1950 20th Street, Vero Beach, FL 32960.

A Prayer service will be said at 6pm in the funeral home chapel.

A funeral mass will be held on July 23, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. Helen Catholic Church, 2000 20th Street, Vero Beach, FL 32960 followed by a burial at Fountainhead Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital.

For those unable to attend in person, the mass will be live-streamed. Please click on the following link to join:

https://vimeo.com/event/4464236

Fortunata "Nina" DeChellis leaves behind a world made better by her presence and a family that will continue to honor her memory with the same love and devotion she gave to them. May she rest in eternal peace.