South Carolina H 4316: REAL ID

Bill Text

2025-2026 Bill 4316 Text of Previous Version (Apr. 09, 2025) - South Carolina Legislature Online 

South Carolina General Assembly
126th Session, 2025-2026

Bill 4316

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

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A house RESOLUTION

TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF CARMELLA TRONCO MARTIN OF COLUMBIA 
AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

Whereas, the members of 
the South Carolina House of Representatives were deeply saddened to learn of 
the death of Carmella Tronco Martin of Columbia on March 19, 2025, at the 
venerable age of 100; and

Whereas, born on 
December 31, 1924, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Carmella was the daughter of 
Sadie Carnaggio Tronco and James Tronco. Raised in a home where labor, 
community, and faith were foundational, Carmella became a strong, compassionate 
woman whose faith was the cornerstone of her life. From a young age, she worked 
in her family's Columbia restaurant, now known as Villa Tronco, where she often 
stood on a Coca-Cola crate to reach the cash register while helping her mother 
with the business. Her childhood was filled with love for her mother, who was 
her inspiration, role model, and true gift from God; and

Whereas, a proud 
graduate of Ursuline High School, Carmella's education was deeply influenced by 
the devoted nuns who instilled in her a love for God, family, and faith. 
Throughout her life, she lived these values, and they guided her every 
decision. She was blessed with a loving family, including her husband, Henry 
Martin. They married on August 12, 1946, and their union lasted seventy-three 
years, a testament to their deep love and commitment to one another; and

Whereas, together, 
Carmella and Henry worked tirelessly to build Villa Tronco, a restaurant that 
became a beloved fixture and culinary icon in their community. Their hard work 
and dedication earned them a place in the South Carolina Restaurant Hall of 
Fame, a reflection of their combined legacy of family and generosity; and

Whereas, beyond her 
role as a restaurateur, Carmella introduced Villa Tronco's famous cheesecake to 
Columbia, making it one of the restaurant's most beloved traditions. Her rich, 
creamy recipe quickly became a local favorite, enjoyed by generations of families 
celebrating life's special moments; and

Whereas, in addition to 
her devotion to family and faith, Carmella was a gifted athlete. As a young 
girl, she played softball and baseball with her brothers, thereby developing a 
competitive spirit that stayed with her throughout her life. She was an 
excellent tennis player and continued to play well into her 70s with her 
beloved group of friends, the "Golden Girls." A reflection of her energetic and 
determined nature, her love for sports brought her great joy and lasting 
friendships; and

Whereas, a devoted 
member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Carmella expressed her faith through a 
life filled with love, kindness, and generosity in all she did; and

Whereas, preceded in 
death by her beloved husband, Henry Martin, Carmella leaves to cherish her 
memory her four children, Dr. Hank Martin (Katie), Sara Martin McAllister 
(Rob), Carmella Martin Roche (Joe), and David Martin; her ten grandchildren, 
Courtnee Martin Bray (John), Kellee Martin Edwards (Leon), Henry Martin III 
(Michelle), Patrick McAllister (Leigh), Kate McAllister Donovan (Tim), Emily 
McAllister Antonowicz (Casey), Bonner Roche (Kristen), Carmelina Roche Nieto 
(Luis), Toth Martin, and Mella Rose Gonzalez; her sixteen great-grandchildren; 
and a host of other dear family members and friends. Though Carmella will be 
deeply missed, her rich legacy will continue to inspire all who knew her. Now, 
therefore,

Be it resolved by the House 
of Representatives:

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, express 
profound sorrow upon the passing of Carmella Tronco Martin of Columbia and 
extend the deepest sympathy to her family and many friends.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution 
be presented to the family.

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This web page was last updated on April 09, 2025 at 10:41 AM