Carmella (Carm) Teresa Arestia (nee Poerio), age 91, was called to Heaven on July 6, 2025, surrounded by her loving husband Rosario (Sonny) Arestia and her children. Carmella was born July 29,1933 to Sam and Edith Poerio of Steger, Illinois. She is survived by her four children, James (Donna) Kogler Jr., Cindy (Dennis) Eggers, Cheryl (the late Brian) Sharpe, Julie (Anthony) Lord, 12 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and her only sibling and beloved brother, John and beloved sister-in-law, the late Kathleen, “Kay” Poerio of Mokena, Illinois.
Carm lived most of her adult life in Palm Harbor, Clearwater, and Inverness, FL. where she was a homemaker raising her four children with good values and family traditions. She was a devout Catholic and an active and dedicated parishioner. In 1991 through the Grace of God, and through the intervention of her best friend of over 40 years, Lorraine Denicola, she met the love of her life, husband and soulmate of 34 years, Sonny, and his three children. Carm was especially proud of the countless times she and Sonny hosted family and friends who gathered for good Italian food, laughter, kindness, and comfort, and where wonderful memories were created. Carm embraced everyone and will always be remembered for her warmth, graciousness, giving nature and compassion. There were no strangers in her life, only friends who became extended family. She loved God unconditionally and was a faithful servant her entire life.
In honor of Carmella’s wishes, arrangements have been made through the Rago Brothers Funeral Home in Illinois.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Carmella’s honor to: Sacred Heart Southern Missions, Walls, MS or Shrine of Our Lady of Hope Catholic Retreat Center, Osyka, MS
The family of Carmella Arestia would like to express our sincere appreciation for the many kind expressions of sympathy extended during our time of bereavement.
To view a live stream of the mass, please click the following link: Remembering Carmella Arestia — Eric Huertas & Co.