Amelia "Emily" Chiri, of Huntsville, AL, originally of Chicago, Ill, passed from natural causes on March 20 2026 at the age of 99  . Amelia met her husband, Gabriel, who passed in 2018 at the age of 93. Amelia enjoyed and is survived by her two children, Col (Ret.) Don A. (Taru) Chiri, of Huntsville, AL and Susan (Paul) Buta of Boston, MA, plus grandchildren Douglas and Bradley Chiri, and Sarah Buta.

Born on October 22, 1926, in Chicago Illinois, she lived a peaceful life defined by kindness and devotion to her family. She was the youngest of six children, raised by her loving family during the heart of the depression and WWII to become a successful bank Vice-President and mother of two. Growing up in the 1930's and 40's was hard but there are many stories of Amelia's sneaking out to follow her sisters, joining in their fun dancing at the famous Chicago Aragon and Trianon ballrooms after the war. During her adventures she met Gabriel, married, raised the family then retired to Huntsville, AL in 1994 to enjoy a quieter, peaceful life. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Michael, sisters Bernice, Mary and Alice "Polly", and brothers Frank and Michael Petrila. We also remember her best friends, Louie and Joanie Schweitzer, who remained friends even after Amelia's move to Huntsville.

We also acknowledge Amelia's dearest friend in Huntsville, Gertrude "Trudy" Cloud, deceased in July 2025, who she met at Redstone Assisted Living. Theirs was a unique, beautiful and joyful friendship that even in Emily's final months, she would remember her friend's name. Our beloved mother and grandmother will be greatly missed and will forever be in our hearts.

Graveside service will be Friday, March 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Maple Hill Cemetery with Father Joe Lubrano officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the Salvation Army (a favorite charity), or one of your choice.

Berryhill Funeral Home is assisting the family.