It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our loving mother and nonna, Amelia Ricci. Amelia passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 12, 2026, while surrounded by her loving family, at St. Luke's University Hospital - Bethlehem Campus in Fountain Hill. She was 80. The beloved wife of the late Joseph Ricci, they shared 50 beautiful years of marriage before his passing in 2014.

Born in Cervinara, Italy, Amelia was one of seven children born to the late Gennaro and Teresa (Casale) Marchese. From a very young age, before immigrating to America, she developed a strong work ethic born of necessity, helping with the many responsibilities of the family farm in Italy. Those early experiences instilled in her the values of hard work, perseverance, and devotion to family that would guide her throughout her life.

As the matriarch of her family, Amelia's greatest joy and highest priority was being a devoted wife and mother. Throughout the years, she also worked side-by-side with her husband, Joe, at their former family business, Penn Pizza in Bethlehem, where they welcomed customers with the warmth and hospitality that made them feel like part of the family.

Amelia was an active and faithful member of Central Assembly of God Church in Bethlehem, where she served as a greeter, always welcoming those who entered with a warm smile. She also generously volunteered in the church's food pantry, helping distribute food to individuals and families in need. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she found great joy in serving both her church and her community.

Her love, laughter, and cherished presence will be deeply missed by her daughter, Gelsomina "Mina" Ricci-Lombardo and her husband, Giuseppe Lombardo; grandson, Giovanni Lombardo; granddaughter, Carina Lombardo and her husband, Majd Daher; five sisters and one brother; as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Joe, she was predeceased by a son, Mike Ricci, in 1997.

Friends and relatives are invited to attend a visitation for Amelia on Thursday morning, September 17, 2026, from 11:00 AM until 12 Noon at Central Assembly of God, 1300 Eaton Avenue, Bethlehem, PA 18018, immediately followed by a Funeral Service at 12 Noon in the church. Entombment will be held at Bethlehem Memorial Park Mausoleum. Arrangements are under the care and direction of the GEORGE G. BENSING FUNERAL HOME, INC., in the Village of Moorestown - Bath. Online expressions of sympathy may be recorded at: bensingfuneralhome.net.