Obituary of Carmela "Millie" Chironna

Native Staten Islander Millie Chironna passed away on January 31, 2024, at Staten Island University Hospital South. She was 94. Born Carmela Gagliardi and raised in West Brighton, Millie was the daughter of John and Dorothy (Conti) Gagliardi. Millie had fond memories of her family's home on Taylor Street and the many gatherings of extended family that took place in the large backyard that included her father's garden. She attended P.S. 19 and Port Richmond High School. She worked in the insurance and retail industries until her marriage to Valerio Chironna in 1950. The couple met at a dance at Svea Hall and attended many dances after that, being known for their ballroom dancing style. Mr. Chironna passed away in 2010. The couple lived in West Brighton until they bought their home in Eltingville in 1964, where Millie resided happily until her death. She valued long friendships with her neighbors as well as her relationship with Lauren, Matthew, and Stacey Kahn, for whom she was first a babysitter, then a surrogate grandmother. Millie enjoyed social occasions of all kinds, especially family gatherings. With her husband, she enjoyed traveling to reunions with his Army buddies and for Masonic events. She made many trips to Atlantic City to play the slots and was a skilled and fervent card player. She also enjoyed dining out. In her younger years she was a volunteer for Deborah League, working bingo nights and serving for a time as treasurer. She was recognized for those efforts at the 2006 Heart Ball. She was a member of Olivet Presbyterian Church and a former member of The Staten Island Italian Club. Millie was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Valerio; her infant son, Richard; her sisters, Marie Ruggirello and Dorothy Clark; and her brothers, Vincent and Dominick. She is survived by her three sons, Robert (AnnMaria) of Westfield, New Jersey, Ronald (Carlynn) of Staten Island, and Jon of Manhattan; and two grandsons, Jason and Jon. She is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. Family and friends may visit Friday, February 2nd, 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM. Funeral Service will be held 10 AM on Saturday, February 3rd at Matthew Funeral Home, 2508 Victory Blvd. Interment to follow at Ocean View Cemetery