Melrose Obituaries

Executive secretary was dedicated to her family

MELROSE — Irene Eldredge Derby of Melrose, formerly of Harwich Port, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026.

Irene was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother whose life was marked by dedication to family, community, and meaningful work. She is survived by her loving children: Linda Kannapel, Joan…

Avid fisherman worked for the MWRA

MELROSE — Paul was a warm and caring man who was known for having a big personality. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and son, and a loyal friend. He taught us to be helpful and generous. There was always room for one (or a dozen) more…

Woman of great faith

MALDEN — Patricia A. “Pat” Mahoney, 87, a beacon of kindness and love, passed away peacefully in the presence of her family at the Care Dimensions Hospice House in Lincoln on March 16, 2026.

Born on March 6, 1939, in Melrose, she was the daughter of the late Christopher and Abina…

Educator taught English and music

MELROSE — Wilma “Becka” (Recklitis) Messina, 93, of Melrose, passed peacefully in her sleep on March 13, 2026 at the age of 93.

Born on March 10, 1933 in Somerville, Massachusetts, Becka was the daughter of the late Paul and Florence (Chopelas) Recklitis. Her family moved to Malden, Massachusetts when…

US Navy veteran

MELROSE — Anthony “Tony” Belmonte, age 98, of Melrose passed away peacefully on March 5 surrounded by his loving family.

Tony was born on September 20, 1927 in East Boston, the son of the late Frank and Christina Belmonte. He attended East Boston High School and, at just 17 years old, joined…

Her heart best seen in love for her family

MELROSE — Judith M. (Benersani) Craig, 68 of Melrose died peacefully surrounded by family on March 2 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Judi was born in Boston on June 1, 1957 to the late O Joseph and Marion Benersani (McMorrow), spending the majority of her…

Kind nature and energetic spirit

MELROSE — Merle C. (Engelhardt) Erban, 82, of Melrose, passed away on Friday, February 20 at Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers.

Born on January 14, 1944 in Boston, Merle was one of three daughters of the late Charles and Marion (Tucker) Engelhardt. She grew up in Bedford on her…

Devoted to her family

MELROSE — Carole M. C. Iannillo, a resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, March 1. She was 70.

Born in Winthrop on November 29, 1955, Carole was one of three children of the late Anthony Iannillo Sr. and Cecile M. (Delwart) Iannillo. Raised and educated in Revere…

Proud Papa who loved his family

MELROSE — Frederick F. Roche, Jr., 75, passed away at home on March 6 surrounded by family after complications from ALS.

Originally from Melrose, Fred was the son of the late Frederick and Reta Roche and the brother of the late Donald Roche. He is survived by his brother…