Mario D'Elia

Mario A. D'Elia III (50) left an impactful legacy passing away on August 28, 2021, at his home in Albuquerque, NM. He is predeceased by his father Mario D'Elia Jr. and survived by his mother Nancy D'Elia Dini and sister Alison D’Elia. Mario was born December 25th,1970 on a military base in Fort Meade, MD. He grew up in Ossining, NY and joined the United States Army as a cook in 1995. He married Shalom Smith Bridges and the two of them moved to Germany the following year while in service. After leaving the military, they moved to Atlanta, GA which is where he was blessed with his two true treasures in life, his daughters, LeAnness (18) and Natalia (15). Mario was known for his extreme loyalty, love of family and friends, pride in his Italian heritage, and true impact to all of those he met. He had the uncanny ability to make a stranger feel like part of the family after a short conversation. He loved everything NY, including the Yankees, Jets and Knicks, and would love to engage in discussion and debate with Boston fans. He was a man who would give the shirt off his back to someone in need and would always be a call away for all of those he loved. He was a chef at heart and was successful in the founding and building of restaurants including Bella’s Pizzeria , in Atlanta ,GA. Mario’s Pizzeria in Alpharetta, GA. and Poppy’s Pizzeria and Italian Eatery , here in Albuquerque, NM(named after his late grandfather and hero Joseph Deyglio “Poppy”). Those who knew him well though understood the restaurants were his peace and core and allowed him to interact and positively influence on all who he met (even Red Sox fans). Mario lived for stories from the “old days” including Poppy and Nana, his friends in Georgia, his daughters growing up and even the mystery of “Who lit the Christ candle?”. LOL Mario has lived in Albuquerque for the past 9 years and grown to love the city and its people. He worked hard to bring a taste of NY to the area and while doing so built some of his most special bonds and relationships. Teresa Yocum and her daughters Sara and Victoria were very special to him as they welcomed him and his girls into their family with the upmost help, comfort, and love during the past year. Memorial Services to honor and celebrate his life will be Thursday September 23rd between 9-11am at Riverside Funeral Home 225 San Mateo Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108.