Carmela Marie "Carmel" Hicks, 85, Altoona, passed away Wednesday at UPMC Altoona. She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Oliver M. and Ann Marie (Cenari) Grassi.

She is survived by 2 sons: Jesse T. Hicks and James F. (Beverly) Hicks, both of Altoona; a niece, Candace Stitt; and her granddog, Bode.

Carmel was preceded in death by two sisters: Diana Stitt and Carol Leipold; and a nephew, Clinton Leipold.

Carmel was a 1958 graduate of Altoona High School and attended the Altoona School of Commerce. She worked as an aid for a doctor's office.

She enjoyed playing sax and clarinet. She liked to watch the Ted Mack Amatuer Hour and was a member of the Stars of Tomorrow Band.

Carmel was a member of St. Mark's Catholic Church and the Bavarian Aid Society.

Friends will be received from 6pm to 8pm on Friday, July 31, 2026 at Santella Funeral Home. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 am on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at St. Mark's Catholic Church. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery.