Carmella Tronco Martin

It is with profound sadness that our family announces the passing of our beloved matriarch, Carmella Tronco Martin, who went to be with the Lord on March 19, 2025, at the age of 100. Cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her, Carmella lived a life full of grace, purpose, and devotion, leaving behind a lasting legacy of love, hard work, and faith.

Born on December 31, 1924, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Carmella was the daughter of Sadie Carnaggio Tronco and James Tronco. Raised in a home where labor, community, and faith were foundational, Carmella became a strong, compassionate woman whose faith was the cornerstone of her life. From a young age, she worked in her family’s restaurant, now known as Villa Tronco, where she often stood on a Coca-Cola crate to reach the cash register, helping her mother Sadie with the business. Her childhood was filled with love for her mother, who was her inspiration, role model, and a true gift from God.

A proud graduate of Ursuline High School, Carmella’s education was deeply influenced by the devoted nuns who instilled in her a love for God, family, and faith. Throughout her life, she lived these values, and they guided her every decision. She was blessed with a loving family, including her husband, Henry Martin. They married on August 12, 1946, and their union lasted 73 years, a testament to their deep love and commitment to one another.

Together, Carmella and Henry worked tirelessly to build Villa Tronco, a restaurant that became a beloved fixture in their community. Their hard work and dedication earned them a place in the South Carolina Restaurant Hall of Fame, a reflection of their combined legacy of family and generosity.

Beyond her role as a restaurateur, Carmella introduced Villa Tronco’s famous cheesecake to Columbia, making it one of the restaurant’s most beloved traditions. Her rich, creamy recipe quickly became a local favorite, enjoyed by generations of families celebrating life’s special moments.

In addition to her devotion to family and faith, Carmella was a gifted athlete. As a young girl, she played softball and baseball with her brothers, developing a competitive spirit that stayed with her throughout her life. She was an excellent tennis player, continuing to play well into her 70s with her beloved group of friends, “The Golden Girls.” Her love for sports brought her great joy and lasting friendships, reflecting her energetic and determined nature.

Her faith was unwavering, and she was a devoted member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. She expressed her faith through a life filled with love, kindness, and generosity in all she did.

Carmella was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Henry Martin, in 2019. She is survived by her four children: Dr. Hank Martin (Katie), Sara Martin McAllister (Rob), Carmella Martin Roche (Joe), and David Martin; her ten grandchildren: Courtnee Martin Bray (John), Kellee Martin Edwards (Leon), Henry Martin III (Michelle), Patrick McAllister (Leigh), Kate McAllister Donovan (Tim), Emily McAllister Antonowicz (Casey), Bonner Roche (Kristen), Carmelina Roche Nieto (Luis), Toth Martin, and Mella Rose Gonzalez; and sixteen great-grandchildren: Dylan and Hayden Edwards, Raleigh Bray, Collin, Rowan, and Nola Grace McAllister, Sadie and Avery Donovan, Adam and Andrew Antonowicz, Tripp, Donovan, and Jorja Roche, Viviana and Joseph Nieto, and Evaline Gonzalez. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Carmella’s wonderful caregivers, especially Hanan and Keke, and to Chelsie, her kind, compassionate, and loving hospice nurse. Their care and support were a great comfort to Carmella and her family.

A Rosary service will be held on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at 5:30 pm at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 3600 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205, and will conclude at 7:30 pm. A Funeral Mass will follow on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 11:00 am, also at St. Joseph Catholic Church.

Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of love, kindness, and unshakable faith will continue to inspire all who knew her. May she rest in the eternal peace of the Lord.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

• Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church Organ Fund, 3600 Devine Street, Columbia, SC 29205

• Ursuline Convent of the Immaculate Conception, 3115 Lexington Road, Louisville, KY 40206

Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family.