Kelle Rae Zarrella

After a long and courageous 8-year fight against Multiple System Atrophy, Kelle Rae Zarrella of Rio Rancho, New Mexico passed away peacefully in her home on March 6, 2022, surrounded by her loved ones at the age of 59. Kelle is survived by her husband Vincent Zarrella Jr.; her four children Christina Bowe and husband Justice, Nicole Neidigk and husband Stephen, Vanessa Marzilli and husband Anthony (AJ), and son Anthony Zarrella and fiancé Gabriella; nine grandchildren Alexander, Olivia, Benjamin, Abigail, Madison, Emily, James, Sophia, and Joseph.

Kelle was born in Oklahoma City, OK on March 28, 1962 to her parents Jackie Rae Jones and Belva Carene Godley. She spent her early childhood living in Oklahoma before moving to the Minneapolis, MN area where she spent the majority of her school age years. In her early 20s, she moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico where she quickly met the love of her life. Kelle and Vincent met in 1984, and were married a year later on September 1, 1985.

Kelle was a proud and devoted mother. She stayed home to provide and care for her family until she went to work for Rio Rancho Public schools from 2002 to 2015. One of Kelle’s most impressive attributes was her ability to love each one of her children individually, and support each endeavor no matter how big. She was their biggest fan and made sure they never missed a practice or activity. She showed her love through service to her family. On weekends, she enjoyed camping adventures and Sunday dinners with her family.  The kitchen table was always full of laughter and love.

She will be missed dearly, especially by her husband and best friend of 36 years. Their love was true and remarkable. Kelle will always be remembered for her beautiful smile and the joy she brought to many.  She was taken too soon, but the tragedy of her illness does not overshadow all the wonderful memories and legacy left behind.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the MSA Coalition to fund research towards a cure, educate healthcare professionals and provide support, information and hope for affected persons and their families. Donations can be made in honor of Kelle online at Donate to General Online Giving (multiplesystematrophy.org)

or by mail to:

The Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) Coalition, Inc.
7918 Jones Branch Drive, Suite 300
McLean, VA  22102

A viewing will take place on Thursday, March 17, 2022 from 10:00 - 11:00 am with a funeral mass to follow at 11:00 am at Church of Incarnation, 2309 Monterrey Rd NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144. An interment will take place at 12:30pm at Vista Verde Memorial Park, 4310 Sara Rd. SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124.