Rosa Ciambarella, a loving Nana and incredible cook, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2026, at her home in Cincinnati, Ohio. Born on May 14, 1938, in Fuscaldo, Italy, Rosa brought the warmth of her homeland with her when she made the brave journey to the United States with three young children—building a new life filled with hope, opportunity, and plenty of good food.

Rosa's kitchen was the heart of her home. Cooking was her love language, and she poured her care into every meal she made. She was famously honest—especially when it came to food—and those close to her will always remember the patience she showed in walking them through her recipes, making sure the traditions she grew up with would live on. A meal from Rosa wasn't just dinner; it was how she told you she loved you.

Rosa was also a talented seamstress, known for her sharp eye and beautiful work. She carried that same dedication into everything she did, always willing to lend a hand to family and friends whenever they needed her.

Above all, Rosa treasured her family. She was proudly known as "Bella Nana" to her six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, and her kindness and warmth touched everyone who knew her. Her kitchen may quiet down, but the recipes, the memories, and the love she shared will stay with her family for generations.

Rosa leaves behind a devoted family who will carry her memory forward: her husband, Mario Ciambarella; daughters Lena (Vick) Turner and Rita (Vince) Wilke; son Ernie (Julie) Ciambarella; and numerous cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family also remembers many special relatives in Fuscaldo, Italy, who were dear to Rosa’s heart. She was predeceased by her beloved parents, Fantonio and Miceli Mazzei.

A Mass honoring Rosa’s life and legacy will be held on May 8, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church Taylor Creek, located at 7130 Harrison Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45247. Committal prayers will commence at St. Joseph Cemetery in Price Hill, followed by a continued celebration of her life at Boudinot LaRosas. A eulogy will be read shortly before Mass begins at 10 a.m., so guests are encouraged to be seated at church by 9:55 AM.

Rosa Ciambarella’s life was a testament to love, hard work, and an unyielding commitment to family. Surrounded by her loving family at the time of her passing, she leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a woman of strength, honesty, and love.