Maureen Ellen Mello (née McAulay)

Maureen Ellen Mello (née McAulay), 72, passed away on March 31st, 2026, in Cincinnati, Ohio surrounded by family. Born on May 13th, 1953, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Maureen was a strong woman of extraordinary faith, a devoted matriarch, and a pillar of the Cincinnati community.

The heart of Maureen’s life was her family. Alongside her husband, she raised six children, later becoming a beloved grandmother to many. Her passion for family extended across the country, as she frequently traveled to ensure she stayed connected with those she loved most. Preserving the memory of those who came before was also a passion of hers, as she pieced together her family tree, connecting the family to their history in Ireland and Scotland.

Maureen was also remarkably handy and a talented craftsman, possessing a rare aptitude for both the structural and the creative. She often tackled complex home construction projects at her own residence and at her children's houses, ensuring her handiwork became a permanent part of the homes where her family grew. Her eye for design was rooted in her degree in fashion merchandising. A gifted seamstress, Maureen spent countless hours sewing, crocheting, and knitting gifts for her family. From professional work clothes and custom prom dresses to the ultimate labor of love, her daughter’s wedding dress, Maureen’s creative touch was woven into the most significant milestones of her children’s lives.

In the professional world, Maureen was a formidable entrepreneur. For decades, she and her husband were staples of the local bar and restaurant industry, after opening Daniel’s Restaurant and Pub. She was both the business mind of the operation and the creative force behind the menu, creating Corryville favorites such as her signature turkey chili, and potato skins with spud sauce.

Beyond the restaurant, Maureen was a sharp and versatile businesswoman. She served as the backbone of her family’s parking lot business and successfully helmed their property management company as a woman-owned enterprise.

Her ambition was matched only by her commitment to her hometown. A passionate advocate for the development of Cincinnati, she dedicated her time to the Corryville Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) and Keep Cincinnati Beautiful. Also serving as President of the Paddock Hills neighborhood organization, she worked tirelessly to improve the community where she lived and thrived.

When she wasn't working or volunteering, Maureen could be found in her garden or planning the next big gathering. She and her husband were legendary hosts, moving their celebrations from the tables of Daniel’s to their own home, where their New Year’s Eve and Super Bowl parties became cherished traditions for friends and family alike.

She is survived by her children Stephanie Stuckey (John), Amanda Glenski (John), Brandon Mello (Claire), Jessica Howell (Cameron), Peter (Joe) Mello (Haley), and Audrey Mello; her cherished grandchildren: John (JT) Stuckey; Sophie, Lydia, Bridget, and Isaac Glenski; Cecilia and Rosa Mello; Sadie and Brooks Howell; and Olivia and Georgianna Mello. Maureen also leaves behind her siblings Charon Blood, Sheila Mello, Margaret Clark, and Walter (Jerry) McAulay.

Maureen was preceded in death by her loving husband of 50 years Peter Mello, and her parents Walter and Ellen McAulay.

Maureen leaves behind a legacy defined by her tireless work ethic and her profound dedication to her family. Her memory will live on in the strength and love of her family, who she raised in her image.

Funeral services will take place on April 11th, 2026: Visitation at 9:00 AM and Catholic Mass at 10:00 AM (Church of the Nativity of Our Lord - 5935 Pandora Ave); Burial at 11:15 AM (St. Mary's Cemetery - 701 E Ross Ave). Reception to follow at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to smashSMARD (www.smashsmard.org).