- Date Of Birth: March 22, 1937
- Date Of Death: September 27, 2014
- State: Florida
Gerald Anthony Martello
Gerald Anthony Martello was surrounded by his children and loving wife, Bernice, when his battle with cancer ended. On September 27, 2014, he departed this Earth for an abundant life in Heaven and today, he is whole, celebrating with his Heavenly Father.
Gerald was born on March 22, 1937 to Tony and Ernestine Martello. He was born in Hattiesburg, MS and then resided in Natchez, MS until making his home in Baker, Florida. The Baker community enriched his life as he developed many friends and loved ones since 1964. He had been married to the love of his life, Bernice, for the past 53 years and together they have a beautiful family.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Tony and Ernestine Martello; his brother, Robert Martello and his son, Vincent Anthony Martello. He is survived by his wife Bernice Martello; son, Chris Martello of Baker; daughter, Tena Battistelli and husband, Frank of Cibolo, TX; and son, Michael Martello and wife Lee of Crestview; and daughter-in-laws, Teressa and Darla Martello. He deeply loved his eight grandchildren: Katrina Figger, and husband Matt of Columbia, South Carolina; Mia, Rice and Madison Martello; Vince, and wife Jacqueline, Kala and Angelo Battistelli; and Carson Martello. He also adored his great grandson, Vincent Anthony Martello, II and was anticipating the arrival of his first great granddaughter, Baby JennaLeigh Battistelli. Gerald shared a deep love for his sister-in-law, Donna Martello and daughters, Melinda and Robyn of Natchez, Mississippi, as well, as the numerous Mississippi cousins, nieces, and nephews. Family and faith meant everything to Gerald.
Gerald attended high school at Cathedral High in Natchez, Mississippi where he developed his passion for the game of basketball. He continued at Copiah-Lincoln Community College, where he will be inducted into the Hall of Fame by the Co-Pi Alumni Association on October 11, 2014. His love of basketball continued and was shared between his children, along with numerous Baker and local youth. Many young men still refer to Coach Martello as one who gave guidance and motivation to the future leaders of the Baker community. Gerald devoted his life to children through a career as an educator for over 30 years.
