Marissa Nichole Martinelli

Interior Communications Third Class Marissa Nichole Martinelli was born on October 14, 1986, to Martin and Clarissa Martinelli in Adak, Alaska. Marissa effortlessly assumed the role of “Big Sis” as the eldest of four children, and was known affectionately as “Joy”, as she was divinely given and full of grace, and she embodied this spirit with her shining smile and silly personality.

Marissa entered the United States Navy on April 15, 2009, and completed boot camp June 17, 2009 as an Honor recruit. She was an Honor graduate of Interior Communications “A” School at Naval Station Great Lakes, Illinois. Marissa served on the USS GUNSTON HALL from May 8, 2010 to April 29, 2014, and received awards including: the Navy and Marine Corp Achievement Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the National Defense Medal. Her tour abroad the USS GUNSTON HALL allowed her to visit many ports, including domestic and international ports. Her final duty assignment was abroad Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia Beach, Virginia from May 1, 2014 to April 10, 2015.

Marissa entered into matrimony with her loving spouse, Andrea, on January 27, 2014, and resided in Norfolk, Virginia with their two puppies, Neyo and Rascal. Marissa enjoyed all things New Orleans, especially the Saints, and often cooked, watched movies, attended concerts, but most of all, loved spending time with her family.

On Saturday, April 11, 2015, Marissa was called home to spend eternity in heaven with her Precious Lord. “Rissa”, as she was affectionately known to her family and friends, was a source of immeasurable joy and a most precious treasure, and will be forever loved and missed.

She was preceded in death by: her great-grandmother Sister Alma Griffin, great-grandfather Brother Willie B. Josey, and great-grandparents Dominic and Jenny Martinelli; her grandmothers, Sister Emma Lee Griffin and Betty Tingle; her grandfather, Jack Martinelli; and her beloved great aunt and godmother, Sister Sandra Griffin-Lewis.

She leaves to treasure and preserve her most precious memory: her devoted parents, Rev. Clarissa and Martin Martinelli of Waukegan, Illinois; her siblings, Biancha, Sophia, and Nicolas Martinelli; her spouse; Renee Martinelli of Norfolk, Virginia; her grandfather, Rev. Willie F. Griffin of Bainbridge, Georgia; a special nephew, Israel Santiago; her great-grandmother Elvira Josey of Bainbridge, Georgia; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and shipmates.

Care for our loved one will be handled by Bruton Mortuary of Bainbridge, GA. Homegoing services will be on Monday, April 20th at St. Stephen’s AME Church (1091 Hutchinson Ferry Rd, Bainbridge, GA 39819). Visitation will begin at 10 am, and the Homegoing Service will start at 12 noon. Interment will follow the service with full military honors, and there will be a repast at Ricky’s Steak and Buffet.

Flowers and other forms of condolences can be sent to Bruton Mortuary (635 Bruton Street, Bainbridge, GA), and if there are any questions or if anyone would like to leave a love letter for Marissa, the family has set up an email address as the point of contact: rissaourjoy@gmail.com.

“Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond measure.” We love you, Mersa.

 

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