Madeline "Maddy" Rose Gardella

Madeline Rose Gardella "Maddy", of South Pasadena, FL passed away on January 5, 2022. Born in the Bronx, NY to the late Philip and Grace Mercaldi on March 14, 1943. Maddy was raised in Yonkers, NY and located to Glen Ellyn, IL where she raised her family. Maddy is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Seltzer; grandsons, Nicholas age 21, Joseph age 18 and their father, Richard Seltzer; son, Joseph Philip (Leta) Gardella; granddaughters, Jessica and Paige Gardella age 19 and their mother, Amy Gardella; grandchildren of her late son, Philip John Gardella, Allison age 20 and Philip Gardella age 19; father of Maddy's children, Sonny Gardella; brother, Phil (Peg) Mercaldi and nephews, Michael, Matthew and Christopher Mercaldi. Maddy was a vibrant, larger than life, advocate for joyous occasions, italian culinary aficionado and ballroom dancing, especially with her dancing partner, Serhiy Barsukov, achieving many awards and trophies together. She also enjoyed studying culinary arts in Italy and traveling there with her family, which is just one testament to celebrating her life each day. Maddy was fully committed to her community, obtaining friends far and wide. She considered each friend as family. They have truly brought her so much joy and love. The company she kept in her life was divine and she will be forever remembered by all who knew her. May her fond memories live within us. There will be a visitation at Anderson-McQueen Funeral Home, 2201 Dr. MLK Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33704 on Tuesday, January 11, 2022 from 9-11am, a funeral service at 11am, then a reception at Pasadena Yacht & Country Club, 6300 Pasadena Point Blvd S, Gulfport, FL 33707 immediately following the service. Maddy will be laid to rest with her son, Philip John Gardella at Good Shepherd Cemetery in Orland Park, IL. Visit the family's online guestbook at www.andersonmcqueen.com.