Leona "Onie" Bozzelli

Isle of Palms - Leona “Onie” Bozzelli, 80, of Isle of Palms, SC passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving children on November 3, 2023.

Onie was born March 22, 1943, in Charleston, SC, daughter of Peter and Frances Bozzelli. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Gina Marie Scalise; parents; brothers, Peter Bozzelli and Joseph Bozzelli; and sister, Catherine Ferri. 

Onie is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Scalise of Charleston, SC; son, Timothy Scalise of Mt. Pleasant, SC; grandson, Robert Batts of Mt. Pleasant, SC; sister, Frances Gaudet of Jefferson, NC; brother John Bozzelli (Valerie) of Isle of Palms, SC; many nieces and nephews as well as extended family.  She is also survived by her loving, silly, and loyal pup, Ellie Mae.

For nearly 70 years, Onie enjoyed the family home on Hamlin Creek and everything that creek life had to offer, especially water skiing in her younger years. For many years in December, the island community would look forward to her dazzling display of Christmas decorations that would adorn her entire front yard. Onie enjoyed many afternoons socializing at the dog park on IOP with her friends and their pups. She was well known for her dry, quick wit.  If anyone ever asked her what the best beach was, she would quickly respond with Folly. Onie was very devoted to her family and was always there for them. You never had to guess where you stood with her, you “just knew.”

Onie attended Saint John Catholic School and was a 1961 graduate of Bishop England High School.  After which, she later became a successful business owner, first with Onie’s Engraving & Awards where she was affectionately known as the “Trophy Lady”.  After retiring, she started Creekmama Oyster Knives engraving her specialty knives that were loved and shipped all across the United States.

Onie did not desire a service but wanted her friends and family to gather together at the family home.  The family will receive guests for a casual drop-in.  “Onie’s Party” will be held this Saturday, November 11, 2023, between 1pm-4pm, 803 Palm Boulevard.  The family would like to thank Fresenius Dialysis-Home Therapies as well as the nursing staff and doctors at Roper St. Francis downtown, and 5 West for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to the Charleston Animal Society, 2455 Remount Road, North Charleston, SC 29406, or the National Kidney Foundation, 5300 Rivers Avenue, North Charleston, SC 29406. 

A memorial message may be sent to the family on our website at:  www.jhenrystuhr.com.