Maria Carmela Rossi, 85, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully at her residence on February 2, 2024, surrounded by her loving family while under the care of Niagara Hospice.  Born on August 3, 1938 in Limosano, Campobasso, Italy, she was the daughter of the late Giuseppe and Rosina (Cioccio) Covatta.

Maria was educated in Italy. On February 21, 1958, she married Nino J. Rossi in Italy, and the couple came to the United States shortly thereafter.  Maria was employed with Niagara Falls Memorial Hospital and the Como Deli, where she retired from in the mid-1990s.

Maria was devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.  She was also a devout Catholic who prayed daily for her family and friends. Along with spending time with her family and cooking for them, she found enjoyment watching Wheel of Fortune and the Beverly Hillbillies.

In addition to her husband of 65 years, Maria is survived by her daughters, Anna (late Larry) Choops and Connie Spears; her grandchildren, Darryl Laster, Jr., Nino Spears, Larrisa Spears, Taylor Choops, and Cody Choops (Jenna Herbert); her great grandchild Emma Choops; her sisters, Teresa (Mario) Mancinella and Mary (late Robert) Bagnoli as well several nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her sister, Angelina (late Antonio) Marinelli.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 7 from 4 – 7 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304.  Maria's Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, February 8 at 12 Noon at Holy Family Parish at St. Joseph Church, 1413 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14301.  Entombment in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY.  In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to St. Jude's Childrens Research Hospital, https://www.stjude.org/donate.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.