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Wayne Leroy Perry, age 63, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2024, in Long Branch, New Jersey, the same city where he was born on December 7, 1960. Wayne was a beacon of joy and generosity, known for his radiant smile and the ease with which he made friends everywhere he went.
Wayne dedicated many years to his career as a landscaper before retiring. His work not only showcased his love for nature but also his commitment to beautifying his community. Wayne was deeply involved in his local churches, Second Baptist of Long Branch and St. Luke’s of Long Branch, where he served as an usher and cooked for church events, sharing his love through service and culinary skills.
His hobbies included listening to music, cooking, and enjoying sports. Wayne was a passionate fan of the New York Giants and also loved watching wrestling. His presence at family gatherings was always cherished, as was his involvement in various church activities.
Wayne is survived by a loving family including his aunt Edna Reed; siblings Irene Perry, Charles Perry, and Tiffany Perry; nieces Danielle Perry, Quiyana Perry, Arlene Perry; nephews Clarence Spinks Jr., Tyree Spinks, Juwan Perry, Jaquan Perry; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wesley Hughes and Arlene Carter, and his sister Claudette Spinks.
The funeral services will be held at Damiano Funeral Home in Long Branch, NJ, on October 5, 2024, from 10 AM until the time of the Celebration of Life Service at 11:30 AM, with a repass to follow at Long Branch VFW on Willow Ave. His life and legacy will be remembered and celebrated by all who knew him. The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence through the Tribute/Guestbook link above.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wayne Leroy Perry, please visit our floral store.
Robert J. Giordano, 79, of Colts Neck passed away peacefully Saturday, September 14th.
Born and raised in Jersey City, Bob moved to Colts Neck fifteen years ago. He graduated from St. Peter’s College. He retired as Vice President of Compliance and Sourcing for Kids Headquarters, New York.
Bob loved family, especially during the holidays. Throughout his life, he travelled the world extensively. To relax, Bob enjoyed daytime television and learning how to play chess. Bob was a parishioner of St. Mary’s RC Church, Colts Neck.
He was pre-deceased by parents Vincent and Agnes Giordano, his sister-in-law, Carol Giordano and his cousins, Raymond Tomczak and Leonard Tomczak.
Surviving is his brother Kenneth Giordano; his nephew Gregory & his wife Lori; their children Kaitlyn and Alexander; his niece Jennifer Martin; her sons Brendan and Nicholas; as well as his cousins Joann & Tony Vojnich.
Mass of Christian burial Wednesday, September 18th 12:00 pm at St. Mary’s RC Church, 1 Phalanx Road, Colts Neck. Burial to follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, NJ. For messages of condolence, please visit Bob’s page of tributes at www.holmdelfuneralhome.com.
Carmela Meneces Pomier “Carmelinda”, was born on May 3rd, 1948, in La Paz, Bolivia. She attended Maria Auxiliadora High School and did her secondary schooling at Incos Institute where she learned English and received vocational training as a secretary.
On July 27th, 1968, she married Franz Estrada, and they embarked on the greatest adventure of all: parenthood. Carminia, Ximena, and Ivana were not just her daughters; but also her legacy. Carmela poured her heart and soul into raising them, prioritizing faith and family above all else. She was an inspiration and a role model who taught her daughters the power of compassion, love, faith, and unwavering resilience.
In 1993, Carmela took a leap of faith and traveled to the United States, a bold move that echoed her adventurous spirit. She inspired her daughters to dream big, to break barriers, and to chase their God-given callings. She officially relocated to the USA in 2014, and her impact was immediate and profound whether at school, church, the senior center, or among family and friends. She was a cheerleader for everyone she met.
A devoted follower of Jesus, she started each day in prayer, her hands raised to heaven overseeing the city or the ocean. Dinnertime was her sacred ritual, a time for family to gather, share our blessings, and engage in insightful discussions with the question of the day. She faced life’s challenges with grace and strength, setting a powerful example for her daughters, never losing hope and encouraging others to do the same. Her compassionate heart and resilience shone through in everything she did and said.
She loved strolling along the beach boardwalk, exploring shops, watching musical concerts, and savoring every spoonful of ice cream. She proudly became a US citizen and remained connected to her roots in Bolivia as well. She always thought of and found ways to help the sick and poor homeless people.
Carmela’s journey on earth came to an end, she has fought the good fight, she has finished her race, she has kept the faith and she is now in paradise in the presence of Jesus Christ until we meet again. She is preceded by her parents Guillermo Meneses and Salome Pomier, and her beloved younger brother Ramiro Meneses. She leaves behind her beloved children Carminia, Ximena, Ivana, Dave, who will forever cherish her memory and the lessons of love, kindness, and strength she instilled in them; her husband Franz, grandchild Carla, brothers Nestor, Roberto, Javier Meneses; uncles, cousins, nephews, nieces, friends and extended family.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS & SUPPORT
On Saturday, September 28th, 2024, 10:00am a mass will be held at 101 Chelsea Ave, Long Branch, NJ 07740 . At 11:30am The Memorial Service will be held at at 100 Ocean Avenue North, Long Branch, NJ 07740 .
Contact us at via text/call (917) 864-1488 and let us know if you can join us.
To honor Carmela’s legacy of love, compassion, resilience, and faith, The Carmelinda Foundation is being established to continue her mission of helping sick and poor homeless people in projects such as La Paz Sin Hambre.
Donations can be made to fund The Carmelinda Foundation at the Go-Fund-Me page: https://gofund.me/35155840
Concetta “Connie” Russo, 88, of Eatontown, passed away on Saturday, September 14th at Monmouth Medical Center.
Born and raised in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Connie built successful careers across various fields. She worked alongside her brother Tony in his printing business, had a stint on Wall Street, and later became a successful real estate agent with Gloria Nilson Realtors.
Connie was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She had a passion for fashion, always ensuring her outfits were perfectly accessorized with the latest jewelry she acquired. Known for her cooking, she loved preparing meals and baking for her family during the holidays, with many still vying for her beloved recipes.
A card and game enthusiast, Connie enjoyed playing Canasta, Bridge, and Solitaire. She traveled extensively throughout the U.S., Europe, China, and the Caribbean. She was also a staunch Republican and an avid Fox News viewer. Her love for music and dancing was unmatched, with Frank Sinatra, the Rat Pack, Bing Crosby Christmas songs amongst her favorites. Her lively spirit and gregarious personality was on full display at three of her grandchildren’s weddings in 2022, where she danced the night away.
Connie was predeceased by her husband, Vincent Russo, in 1999; her grandson, Kyle Lawton, in 1991; her daughter-in-law, Ellie Guardino, in 2021; and her brothers, Anthony and Frank Pullo.
She is survived by her children, Nadine and her husband Drew Arcomano of Eatontown, Joseph and his wife Amber Guardino of Naples, FL, and Jeffrey Guardino of Menlo Park, CA; her sister, Vivian Bonett of Hollywood, FL; her eight grandchildren, Christopher and MC, Dillon and Katie, Troy and Rachel, Alexie and her fiancé Lorenzo, Grant, Nicholas and Katrina, Kate and Joey; and her former husband, Joseph Guardino of Lakewood.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 27th from 4 to 8 PM at Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home, 10 Morrell Street, Long Branch. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, September 28th at 9 AM at St. Dorothea’s RC Church, with entombment to follow at Holmdel Mausoleum, Holmdel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Connie’s memory to Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org.
Concetta “Connie” Russo, 88, of Eatontown, passed away on Saturday, September 14th at Monmouth Medical Center.
Born and raised in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Connie built successful careers across various fields. She worked alongside her brother Tony in his printing business, had a stint on Wall Street, and later became a successful real estate agent with Gloria Nilson Realtors.
Connie was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She had a passion for fashion, always ensuring her outfits were perfectly accessorized with the latest jewelry she acquired. Known for her cooking, she loved preparing meals and baking for her family during the holidays, with many still vying for her beloved recipes.
A card and game enthusiast, Connie enjoyed playing Canasta, Bridge, and Solitaire. She traveled extensively throughout the U.S., Europe, China, and the Caribbean. She was also a staunch Republican and an avid Fox News viewer. Her love for music and dancing was unmatched, with Frank Sinatra, the Rat Pack, Bing Crosby Christmas songs amongst her favorites. Her lively spirit and gregarious personality was on full display at three of her grandchildren’s weddings in 2022, where she danced the night away.
Connie was predeceased by her husband, Vincent Russo, in 1999; her grandson, Kyle Lawton, in 1991; her daughter-in-law, Ellie Guardino, in 2021; and her brothers, Anthony and Frank Pullo.
She is survived by her children, Nadine and her husband Drew Arcomano of Eatontown, Joseph and his wife Amber Guardino of Naples, FL, and Jeffrey Guardino of Menlo Park, CA; her sister, Vivian Bonett of Hollywood, FL; her eight grandchildren, Christopher and MC, Dillon and Katie, Troy and Rachel, Alexie and her fiancé Lorenzo, Grant, Nicholas and Katrina, Kate and Joey; and her former husband, Joseph Guardino of Lakewood.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 27th from 4 to 8 PM at Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home, 10 Morrell Street, Long Branch. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, September 28th at 9 AM at St. Dorothea’s RC Church, with entombment to follow at Holmdel Mausoleum, Holmdel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Connie’s memory to Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org.
Shirley Emilia Anthony, known affectionately as GiGi, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2024, at her home in Monmouth Beach, NJ, at the age of 91, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on October 11, 1932, in Hillside, NJ, she was a beacon of strength and joy in the lives of those she touched.
Shirley graduated from Hillside High School in 1950, married her husband, William A. Anthony in 1952, had four beautiful children and moved down the shore to Monmouth Beach in 1959. She dedicated much of her life to nurturing her family as a loving stay-at-home mom. She later shared her warmth and wisdom as a preschool teacher and bus driver at Ivy Hedge Preschool in Ocean Township, NJ, during the late seventies and early eighties. She was a cherished member of the Lutheran Church of the Reformation in West Long Branch, NJ, since 1959.
She was a woman of many passions, including her love for Word Find books, reading, and traveling. GiGi enjoyed the melodies of Jimmy Buffet and Neil Diamond, savoring a nice glass of red sangria occasionally, and cherished every moment spent with her great-grandchildren.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Suzanna Stromko and Martin Trizna; siblings Mary Smyllie, Sue Christ, Rudolph “Rudy” Trizna, and Gus Trizna; her husband William A. Anthony; and her sons William “Billy” Anthony, Mark Anthony, and Jeffrey Anthony. She was also preceded by her granddaughter Caitlin Anthony.
She is survived by her granddaughter and grandson, Tara & John Mercogliano, along with her great-grandson, Jeffrey Mercogliano, with whom she lived with in Monmouth Beach. She is also survived by her daughter, Sherry Molinelli and son-in-law Bob; grandchildren Barry W. Sims, Jr., Mark K. Anthony, Brittany, Megan, Madison, & Matthew Molinelli, and her great-granddaughters Alexandra Sims and Bailey Sims. Also mourning her passing are her niece Debbie Casabona; niece and nephew-in-law Arlene & Frank Goodman; great-niece and nephew-in-law Kristen & Rich Luettchau; great-nephews and nieces-in-law Kevin & Mandy Goodman, and Craig & Michelle Goodman; and great-great-nephews Andrew Luettchau, Jack Goodman, and great-great-niece Holly Goodman, along with many other relatives and friends.
Visitation will be held on Monday, September 23, 2024, from 4 to 8 PM at Damiano’s Funeral Home in Long Branch, NJ. A funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at 10:30 AM at the Lutheran Church of the Reformation in West Long Branch, NJ, followed by interment at Woodbine Cemetery in Oceanport, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Lutheran Church of the Reformation Food Pantry, Visiting Nurse Association Health Group (VNA), or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. These organizations reflect Shirley’s spirit of giving and community support.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Shirley Anthony, please visit Damiano floral store.
Edward Paul Pollack, Jr., 76, of Holmdel, N.J., passed away on August 29, 2024, of pancreatic cancer.
Born in Perth Amboy, N.J., on August 18, 1948, to the late Edward Paul, Sr. and Estelle (Stella) Ferretti, Ed grew up in Avenel, N.J.. Ed graduated from Woodbridge High School and then with honors from both Middlesex County College with an AS and the University of West Florida (UWF) with a BS in Biological Sciences and Chemistry. Ed served proudly in the Army Reserve (2 Years) and the National Guard (8 Years) with special involvement in the Governor’s Youth Program.
Ed began his career at Merck and Co., Inc. as a staff microbiologist in the pneumococcal vaccine program that led to the development of Pneumovax 23. As Director of Project Management, Ed coordinated the worldwide development of several well-known commercial products in the human (Norfloxacin, Lisinopril), veterinary (Ivomec, Heartgard, Eqvalan, Curatrem, Gastrogard, Tetradure, Enacard), and agricultural (Agrimec, Avid) fields. He received a Merck Management Committee Award for outstanding project management for his efforts on the development of Ivermectin which was used for numerous animal health products and in humans to prevent river blindness. As Head of Business Development for a Merck Business Division, he was a member of the Merck licensing and patent committees and handled licensing and distribution arrangements. Ed worked with the Chairman of Merial (a Merck and Sanofi-Aventis joint venture) to structure and implement R&D Operations, as well as licensing and business review processes.
After his retirement from Merck with 31 years of service, Ed directed the development of R&D collaborations for the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI). Ed handled the establishment of the HIV Neutralizing Antibody Consortium which included 26 universities and research institutions dedicated to create a preventive HIV vaccine and medicines.
Ed first crossed paths with the love of his life, Ellen, at UWF, when he boldly approached her work-study desk and asked her to “go grooving.” Their deep and enduring love blossomed over the years. Together, they raised their family in Westfield, NJ where they resided for 50 years, while sharing a lifelong romance reminiscent of a Nicholas Sparks’ novel.
In “semi”-retirement, Ed and Ellen split their time between their homes in The Village Grande at Holmdel (Holmdel, NJ) and Palm Beach Leisureville (Boynton Beach, FL). Ed cherished staying active with Ellen, watching Villanova basketball, playing bocce ball and bowling, gardening, and cooking. Also, “Coach Ed” invested many hours side-line coaching and cheering on his sons in the swimming pool and later his granddaughters on the soccer field.
Ed will be remembered for his boundless energy and vibrant spirit – he was a real pip. A creative at heart, he had a passion for fishing, cars, and clay shooting with his sons. In addition, Ed had a strong affinity for completing home improvement projects. His inventive and problem-solving nature brought joy and practical solutions to friends and family.
Ed is survived by his wife of 53 years Ellen; son Edward 3D (Ted) and his wife Dara (Schwartzman) of Middletown, NJ, the proud parents of Ed’s spirited granddaughters, Mia and Emma; his son James (Jay), Esq., of Middletown, NJ; and his brother Michael of Avenel, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ed’s memory can be made to No Limits Café (https://www.nolimitscafe.org/donate2/).
Candace McGeddy, age 78, passed away on September 11, 2024, in Oceanport, New Jersey. Born on April 19, 1946, in Newark, New Jersey, Candace was a respected and beloved figure in her community and a devoted advocate for patients at Monmouth Medical Center, where she dedicated over 30 years of service.
Candace was known for her respectful, loving, caring, confident, and hardworking nature. She was a graduate of Shore Regional High School and spent her life making a significant impact on those around her through her career and personal interactions.
She enjoyed spending her leisure time engaging in various hobbies that included relaxing at the beach, swimming in the pool, watching movies, and expressing her love through cooking and baking.
Candace is survived by her sons, William McGeddy Jr. and Michael McGeddy Sr., and her grandson, Michael McGeddy Jr. She was preceded in death by her husband, William McGeddy Sr., and her parents, Dorthy and Ralph Weelock and Mary McGeddy her daughter in law.
Details regarding a memorial service will be announced as they are planned. Candace’s life and legacy will be remembered fondly by her family, friends, and all who knew her. The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link above.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Candace McGeddy, please visit Damiano floral store.
Emil William Tvrdik Jr., aged 91, passed away on August 26, 2024, in Oceanport, NJ. Born on January 20, 1933, in Mineola, New York, Emil was a respected Self-employed Carpenter and Home Builder since 1958 renowned for his craftsmanship and dedication to quality.
Emil graduated from St. Petersburg High School in Florida, which laid the foundation for his successful career in carpentry and home building. Known for his outgoing personality, Emil was always ready to lend a hand in building projects for family and friends, most notably volunteering with neighbors constructing the Oceanport Volunteer First Aid Squad. His hobbies included bowling, where he achieved two perfect “300” games, archery, and trap/target shooting. Beyond his hobbies, Emil was a constant tinkerer, always found perfecting a project in his workshop. He cherished the time spent with his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and family at his home.
Emil is survived by his loving wife, Helen (West) Tvrdik; children, James Tvrdik and partner Cheryl Sedaker, Gary Tvrdik and wife Carolyn, Sherry Smith and husband Merv and Edward Tvrdik and wife Ellen; and sibling Kathleen Siegel and husband Tice. He was a proud grandfather to Gary Jr. and wife Jenel, Thomas and wife Felicia, Jamie and husband Ed, Edward Jr., Jennifer, Joseph, Nicole, Emily, and Andrew Tvrdik; and great grandfather to Cibella, Luca, Kylie, Eddie, Cecelia, Zoey, Thomas, Brody and Connor. Emil was preceded in death by his parents, Emil William Tvrdik Sr. and Margaret Tvrdik, and siblings Peggy Bowker, Barbara Malloy, and Janet Benedetti.
A Mass to honor Emil’s life will be held at St. Michaels Roman Catholic Church, 800 Ocean Ave., Long Branch, NJ, on September 20, 2024, at 10:30 am. Entombment will follow in Woodbine Mausoleum. The Damiano Funeral Home in Long Branch, NJ, is assisting the family during this time.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105 Web: http://www.stjude.org/ in memory of Emil. Emil’s legacy of kindness, skill, and companionship will be deeply missed by all who knew him. The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link above.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Emil W. Tvrdik, Jr., please visit our floral store.
Anthony G. Hill, (aka “Ant”), 42, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 14, 2024.
He was born August 5, 1982 in Long Branch, to Robert C. Hill, Jr. and Michelina Hill. He was a 2000 graduate of Long Branch High School. On October 25, 2009, he married his high school sweetheart and love of his life Emily Vasquez. On September 2, 2002 and February 29, 2003 respectively, he welcomed his daughter and son, who were the most important in his life.
He worked as a cab driver for Yellow Car Co. for 18 years.
Anthony had such an infectious smile and an uncanny ability to reach people in a deep and positive way. He truly lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures; gaming and chatting with family and friends, making creative recipes, watching WWE, Halloween and haunted houses, and spending time with his nieces and nephews.
He is survived by his best friend and wife, Emily Vasquez of 15 years; daughter, Amaya Hill-Vasquez; son, Anthony Hill Jr.; mother, Michelina Hill; sisters, Carmela Hill and Jean Fields; brother, Robert Hill III; many nieces, nephews and many friends. He has touched so many lives and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Family, friends and others whose lives Anthony touched are invited to visit from 1-3 and 5-7 pm on Friday, September 20, 2024 at Fiore-Buckley Funeral Home, 236 Monmouth Road in Oakhurst, Ocean Township. Funeral Mass will be offered on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 10 am at Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church in Long Branch. For condolences, please visit www.fiorefuneralhomes.com.
Joan E. Lamb, of Howell, formerly of West Long Branch passed away on Friday, September 13, 2024.
She was born in Jersey City and lived in Elmwood Park, NJ and in New Port Richy, Florida and West Long Branch before moving to Howell for 16 years ago.
Joan enjoyed spending time with her family. She liked to travel, cook and enjoyed going to the Howell Township Senior Center to play Bingo and cards. She was a licensed practical nurse for hospice system and then a home health aide.
She was predeceased by her parents, Charles and Jean Berry, her stepfather, John “Poppy” Reidy; her husbands, Carroll Lamb and Allen Winters.
She is survived by her daughter, Sharon Clune (Robert); her son, Brian Lamb (Renae); brother, John Reidy (Debra); former sister-in-law, Jane Reidy; grandchildren, Brian Colby Lamb, Kayleigh Clune, Jenna Bonifacius (Joshua) and Matthew Reidy (Kristy) and great-grandchildren, Ava, Nico and Giuliana Reidy.
There will be a service at 1 pm Monday, October 7, 2024 at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Arneytown. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Howell Township Senior Center, 257 Preventorium Road, Howell, NJ 07731.For condolences, please visit www.fiorefuneralhomes.com.
Frederick F. Donner of Eatontown, NJ, left us on September 14, 2024. Affectionately known as “Fred” or “Freddy,” he was born March 8, 1945, to Richard and Matilda. Fred worked a few jobs in his early years. His last employer before his retirement was D & D Glass.
He was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Matilda and his brother Thomas.
He is survived by his brother Robert Donner of Eatontown; a loving family that he called his own Dan and Angela Daly and children Daniella, Christine & Daniel and his favorite little ones Vincent and Madelyn; also, his dog Lady who will miss him as well as many friends.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the SPCA of Eatontown or Ronald McDonald House of New Brunswick in Fred’s name.
Reverend Bernice Althea Goldsmith, a devoted servant of God and beloved matriarch, peacefully passed away, leaving a legacy of faith, love, and service. She was born on April 26, 1939, to Lucious and Ora Lee Boone. Throughout her 85 years, she lived a life that touched countless others with her generosity, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to her faith and family.
Rev. Bernice Goldsmith was a community pillar dedicated to her church, Shrewsbury Avenue A.M.E. Zion, and Emanuel Baptist Church Tinton Falls. Over the years, she served in numerous capacities, including Church Clerk, Missionary President, Sunday School President, and Vacation Bible School teacher. She also had the honor of being a Bible Study instructor, focusing on the Old Testament, and taught noon-day Bible study sessions. Her calling extended beyond teaching, as she was a Licensed Preacher of the Gospel and an Ordained Deacon guiding others in their spiritual journeys.
In addition to her religious commitments, Rev. Bernice attended Brookdale Community College and furthered her biblical studies at Calvary Chapel Bible College and the School of the Prophets. She was a lifelong learner, committed to deepening her understanding of God’s Word and sharing it with those around her.
Rev. Bernice worked at Wheelock in Long Branch, NJ, where she was cherished by her colleagues and friends alike for her Humor, kindness, and commitment. She balanced her career with her dedication to ministry and her beloved family.
Rev. Goldsmith was reunited in eternity with the love of her life, Joseph Goldsmith and Son Whitman Rouse.
She is survived by her loving daughter Deborah Rouse; and grandson, Aaron (Lysie) Rouse. Her memory will also live on through her great-grandchildren, Amir, Amirah, and Asherah Rouse, whom she adored deeply; sisters Sylvia Wainwright, Bell Washington, and Shirley Rouse; brothers Thomas (Helen) Boone, Charles Goldsmith, and Roger (Jackie)Goldsmith; Rev. Letha Williams, Rev. Janet Jones, Dr. Lessie Austin, Rev. Rashuan Booker; Wheelock Crew (Flo, Pat, Wilha, Irene, Yvonne); and many more Family and Friends.
Rev. Bernice Althea Goldsmith’s life was of purpose, grace, and service. She leaves behind a rich legacy of faith and will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
May her soul rest in eternal peace.
5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
Lori Orr, a beloved teacher, devoted wife, and loving mother, passed away peacefully at the age of 96 on September 10, surrounded by her family. Lori dedicated her life to educating young minds, teaching third grade at Eatontown Public Schools and leaving an indelible mark on a generation of students.Lori is survived by her daughter Pam Schaible, son-in-law Anthony Schaible, her son Scott Orr, and her grandchildren: Nick Schaible, Mary Kate Schaible, Olivia Orr, and Justine Orr. Her legacy of love, education, and creativity will continue to inspire those who knew her.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Lorraine Orr please visit our Sympathy Store.
Planet Ann Vassell began her life’s journey on Saturday, October 20th, 1945, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was granted eternal life on Monday, September 2nd, 2024, while residing at the Complete Care at Ocean Grove nursing home.
She was the only child born of the union between Rebecca (nee Flagg) and Edward B. Moody. Named after her paternal grandmother, Planet was lovingly known as “Ann” throughout her adult life.
Planet received her early education in Catholic school then later transferred into the West Philadelphia Public School System. She was an avid reader and excelled in English courses, developing a love for Shakespeare and writing poetry. A proud “Philly Girl”, Planet loved high school basketball games, her father’s beloved Nittany Lions of Penn State and the Pittsburgh Steelers, as well as the Philadelphia Eagles.
Upon completing her education, Planet worked as a waitress and was once approached about modelling. In 1965 she began her life in New Jersey with now ex-husband, Herbert Cause. Together they raised 3 daughters; Connie, Marcie (Bridget) and Crystal in what was then called New Shrewsbury.
Throughout her time in New Jersey, Planet worked at many jobs including Midland Glass, Shrewsbury Manor, Laird’s Distillery, Seals Eastern and Monmouth Regional High School. At the time of her retirement, Planet was an Activities Coordinator at Tower Lodge Care Center in Wall, NJ.
Planet’s life was filled with more than just working. She joined Calvary Baptist Church in Red Bank, serving as a past president of the Nurses Unit, spearheading the drive to collect food for local pantries as well as sang in the Women’s Choir. It was there on December 3rd,1988, that Planet and Keith Vassell exchanged vows. They remained married until his passing on April 27th, 2016.
Planet had eclectic tastes in music, loved boating with friends, family cook outs and long drives along Jersey roads to watch the leaves change each fall. She was a member of the Ruth’s Lodge of the Eastern Stars, rising to the rank of Daughter of the Amaranth.
Planet found her spiritual home on June 26th, 2016, while attending the Installation Service of Reverend James Jackson at First Baptist Church. She later called her daughter and declared “I want to join that church!” On August 7th, 2022 her goal was realized.
“Read Ephesians 6:13-14” was her favorite advice to give.
“Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm…” (NIV)
GiGi, as Planet is now known, leaves to cherish her memory 3 daughters Connie Smith (Lorenza), Bridget Johnson-Cause, and Crystal Jones (Claude Sr.); 9 grandchildren Claude Jones Jr. (Nicole), Tiffany Jones and Joseph Sottile,
Terrell Jones (Autumn), Jordan Cause, Alecia Jenkins (Corey), Michael Smith, Connie Briscoe (Rodney), Bryan Smith, and Jamel Smith (Nikita); 24 great-grandchildren; 2 daughters of the heart Judy Schimpf and Alicia Jacocks; one Sister in Christ Evangelist Sandra Davis and a host of very special friends. MEMORIAL SERVICE- Friday 9-20-2024, First Baptist Church, 410 Nineth Ave., Belmar, NJ 07719, 11:30 AM
Jose J Guzman Jr., age 70, passed away in his room from acute respiratory failure on September 8, 2024, at home. He resided with his son, AJ and daughter-in-law, Pilar, in Tinton Falls NJ. Born February 5, 1954, the only son of Georgina Rivera and Jose Guzman Sr in Newark, New Jersey. He grew up in North Jersey surrounded by friends and family.To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Jose J. Guzman please visit our Sympathy Store.
Dr. Leonard Michael Dileo, MD, 81, passed away on September 13, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Trenton, NJ, to Leonard Scammel and Antoinette (Netty) Dileo, Len lived a remarkable life dedicated to his family, patients, and passions.
Len is survived by his son, Ali Dileo, daughter-in-law, Courtney, and granddaughters Isla and Keira. He is also survived by his siblings, Catherine (David) Radeschi of Eatontown, NJ; Pasquale (Kathy) Dileo of Toms River, NJ; and Thomas Dileo of Princeton, NJ. He was a cherished uncle to Christopher (Melanie) Radeschi and their children, Christopher and Alexandra; Gregory (Angela) Radeschi and their daughter, Sequoia; Michael (Liz) Dileo; Katie (Patrick) O’Donnell and their daughters, Reese and Teagan; Joanna (Keith) Morris and their son, Elijah; and Jack and Sophia Dileo. Len will also be deeply missed by many cousins and extended family who cherished him.
Len was known for his warm, gentle spirit and his ability to make everyone feel heard and understood, qualities that extended beyond his work as a psychiatrist to all aspects of his life.
Dr. Dileo graduated from Rutgers University in 1964 with a degree in Pre-Medicine before serving two years as a Community Organizer in the Peace Corps in Iran, where he became fluent in Farsi. He later pursued his medical education at the University of Bologna in Italy, followed by an internship at Cooper Hospital in Camden, NJ, and a psychiatry residency at Albert Einstein Hospital in Philadelphia, where he served as Chief Resident.
For 40 years, Dr. Dileo practiced as a Board-Certified Geriatric Psychiatrist in Virginia Beach, VA, where he was deeply loved by his patients for his empathy and care. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, both personally and professionally, with his compassion and wisdom.
Len frequently returned to New Jersey to spend time with family, cherishing ocean swim races with his brothers, Pat and Tommy, and embarking on “The Boys’ Scuba Diving Trips” with his son, nephews, and brother, exploring destinations around the world. For four years, Len and his siblings hosted a radio show, Around the Kitchen Table, on WNWR 1540 AM in Philadelphia. Len took great pride in planning the menu and selecting the wine for the family dinner before each show, thoroughly researching every detail and bringing his signature passion and care to the experience.
A true Renaissance man, Len had a deep appreciation for history, art, food, music, and his Italian heritage. He especially enjoyed family trips to Italy, including visits to his father’s village of San Fele. Fluent in Italian, Len was often mistaken for a local when traveling there, embracing the culture, food, and wine with joy. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who loved him.
In his final years, Len was surrounded by the unwavering love and care of his son Ali, former wife Mitra Gilbert, and other devoted family members, who ensured he was always comforted and supported.
A remembrance and celebration of life will be held on Sunday, September 22, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Bongarzone Funeral Home (2400 Shafto Road, Tinton Falls, NJ 07712).
Those who knew and cared for Dr. Dileo are invited to raise a toast in his honor with one of his favorite drinks: a glass of Italian red wine or a double shot of espresso.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Dr. Dileo’s memory to the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County. Contributions can be made online at https://mentalhealthmonmouth.org/donate/
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Dr. Leonard M. Dileo please visit our Sympathy Store.
