A house RESOLUTION

 

TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF CARMELLA TRONCO MARTIN OF COLUMBIA AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Carmella Tronco Martin of Columbia on March 19, 2025, at the venerable age of 100; and

 

Whereas, 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 Columbia restaurant, now known as Villa Tronco, where she often stood on a Coca-Cola crate to reach the cash register while helping her mother with the business. Her childhood was filled with love for her mother, who was her inspiration, role model, and true gift from God; and

 

Whereas, 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 seventy-three years, a testament to their deep love and commitment to one another; and

 

Whereas, together, Carmella and Henry worked tirelessly to build Villa Tronco, a restaurant that became a beloved fixture and culinary icon 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; and

 

Whereas, 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; and

 

Whereas, 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, thereby developing a competitive spirit that stayed with her throughout her life. She was an excellent tennis player and continued to play well into her 70s with her beloved group of friends, the "Golden Girls." A reflection of her energetic and determined nature, her love for sports brought her great joy and lasting friendships; and

 

Whereas, a devoted member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Carmella expressed her faith through a life filled with love, kindness, and generosity in all she did; and

 

Whereas, preceded in death by her beloved husband, Henry Martin, Carmella leaves to cherish her memory 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; her sixteen great-grandchildren; and a host of other dear family members and friends. Though Carmella will be deeply missed, her rich legacy will continue to inspire all who knew her. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, express profound sorrow upon the passing of Carmella Tronco Martin of Columbia and extend the deepest sympathy to her family and many friends.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family.

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