Obituary - Carmella Mary Peacock
Carmella Mary "Chee Chee" Peacock, 87, of Sandston, Virginia, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026.
Born on June 19, 1938, in Brooklyn, New York, Carmella was the daughter of James Vincent
Salamone and Rose Grace Ricciardi Salamone. She spent her early years in Brooklyn before later moving to Highland Springs, Virginia, where she attended Highland Springs High School and built a life centered around faith, family, and caring for others.
A devoted Catholic, Carmella worked in appliance sales for more than twenty years, including positions with Grants and Sears. She was known for her strong work ethic, generous heart, and willingness to help anyone in need. Throughout her life, she cared for family, friends, and neighbors, always putting others before herself. One of her greatest acts of love was helping raise her younger brother, Johnny, whom she cared for deeply throughout her life.
Affectionately known as "Chee Chee" by family and friends, she enjoyed bowling, playing poker and cards, dancing, riding bicycles, playing bingo, and spending time at the Moose Club. She had a gift for bringing people together and was especially known for her wonderful Italian cooking. Her lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, and many other traditional Italian dishes became staples at family gatherings and holidays, creating memories that will be treasured for generations. More than anything, Chee Chee loved her family. She took great pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and nothing brought her greater joy than spending time with those she loved.
She was preceded in death by her parents, James Vincent Salamone and Rose Grace Ricciardi Salamone; her brother, Charlie Salamone; and her sister, Rosemary Bassinger.
She is survived by her children, Terry Tinsley, Debbie Akers, Louis "Bubba" Martin Jr., and Jamie Martin; her brothers, Jimmy Salamone and Johnny Salamone; her grandchildren, Chad Tinsley (Lindsay), Shannon Loving (John), Jonathan Martin (Katelyn), Ashley Akers (Gerrin), Wesley Akers, Laura Shelton (Lamar), Tara McCauley (Josh), Amanda Daniel (Tommy), Sarah Lee (Brandon), Dylan Martin, Eric Martin (Kori), Patrick Martin (Taylor), and Karen Martin; 19 cherished great-grandchildren; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Carmella's life during a visitation and open viewing on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Bliley's Funeral Home, 3801 Augusta Avenue, Richmond, Virginia 23230. Cremation will follow.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered their prayers, support, and kindness during this difficult time.
Though she will be deeply missed, Chee Chee's legacy of love, compassion, faith, and devotion to family will live on in the many lives she touched.
