Local Obituaries

Dr. Gerald Kass, O.D., age 85, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loving family on February 3, 2025 at Monmouth Medical Center.

He was born Gerald Finkelstein in Long Branch, NJ on March 18, 1939 and lived in Monmouth County throughout his life. His father, Louis Finkelstein died when he was 6 months old. He and his brother Marvin Finkelstein were raised by their mother, Rose Kass, who later remarried, to Harry M. Kass, at which time he took on his stepfather’s last name.

Dr. Kass practiced optometry for 60 years and maintained a private practice in West Long Branch, NJ for 48 years. Dr. Kass graduated from Monmouth College, and later, the New England College of Optometry in 1963. He specialized in various areas of optometry, including corneal and contact management, pediatrics, and vision therapy. He was a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and held various leadership roles in the Monmouth-Ocean County Optometric Association and American Optometric Association. He was a proud United States Army Veteran as well.

Dr. Kass lived a vibrant, active lifestyle with boundless curiosity and countless hobbies and interests.

Funeral service was, February 5, at Monmouth Reform Temple, 332 Hance Avenue, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Parker Family Health Center, 211 Shrewsbury Ave, Red Bank, NJ 07701 (parkerfamilyhealthcenter.org)

Kathleen G. Eager, née Gannon, aged 90, passed away on January 23, 2025, in Tinton Falls, NJ. Born on January 8, 1935, in Monmouth Beach, Kathleen was a lifelong resident of the area and cherished her roots deeply.

A graduate of Long Branch High School, Kathleen was known for her vibrant personality and her love for the ocean. She spent many summers on the beaches at Monmouth Beach, a tradition she joyfully passed down to her children and grandchildren. Kathleen was affectionately known to her friends and family as Kate, Aunt Kate, Mamie, and Katester, each name reflecting her warm, loving nature.

Kathleen married the love of her life, Philip J. Eager, and together they raised a beautiful family, fostering a home filled with love and laughter. She is survived by her children Philip J. Eager, Kelly Eager Zweig and son- in-law Eugene Zweig, Michael J. Eager and daughter-in law-Catherine Eager, and Matthew J. Eager and daughter-in-law Ana Eager; grandchildren Alix Eastwood (Owen), Andrew Eager, Christopher Zweig, Kevin Eager, Paula Matsunaga, Max Eager, Harry Eager, Brian Eager, and Sarah Eager; great-grandchildren George and Russell Eastwood; niece and helper Sharon Arellano and children Aaron and Ellie Arellano and many nieces and nephews. Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and John Gannon, her brother John J. Gannon, sister Eileen Levy, and her husband, Philip J. Eager.

Throughout her life, Kathleen was dedicated to her roles as a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her hobbies included travel, gardening, and cooking. She loved sailing and boating and hated low tides.

Kathleen’s legacy will be cherished by all who knew her, as she taught us the importance of family, the joy of a day at the beach, and the peace found in a well-tended garden.

Entombment is at Woodbine Mausoleum, Oceanport.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Kathleen’s memory to Monmouth Beach First Aid, 26 Beach Road, Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750 and Oceanport First Aid, P.O. Box 76, Oceanport, NJ 07757; organizations she fervently supported. The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kathleen Gannon Eager, please visit Damianofloral store.

Cesar Agosto Guevara, born on June 10, 1947, in Quito, Ecuador, passed away peacefully at home on February 2, 2025, in Long Branch, New Jersey. He was a beloved figure in his community and a dedicated family man who prioritized the well-being of his loved ones above all else.

Cesar’s commitment to his family was paralleled by his dedication to his career. For 40 years, he served as the Night Supervisor for Housekeeping at Monmouth Medical Center, where his hard work and dependability were deeply valued.

A friend of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Cesar’s faith was a guiding force in his life. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures-running and cycling along the beach, as well as camping-activities he cherished most when shared with family.

Cesar is survived by his loving wife, Maria Centeno Guevara; his mother, Carmen Viteri; his children, Veronica Guevara-Lovgren, Cristina Blackley, Cesar Guevara, and Diego Guevara; and his cherished grandchildren, Matthew, Gwyneth, and Peyton Blackley, and Mia Lovgren. He also leaves behind his son-in-law, Daniel Lovgren. He was preceded in death by his father, Luis Alfredo Guevara; his uncle, Eduardo Guevara; his aunt, Aida Suasnavas Guevara; and his cousins, Angel Guevara and Fanny Guevara Padilla.

Visitation will be held at The Damiano Funeral Home, 191 Franklin Avenue in Long Branch on Monday, February 10 from 6 pm until the time of service at 7pm. Closing prayers will take place at the funeral home the following morning beginning at 10 am, and interment will follow at Monmouth Memorial Park Cemetery in Tinton Falls.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Cesar’s memory to The American Red Cross or to The American Heart Association by visiting the link provided here.

Cesar’s legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering support for his family will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Cesar Guevara, please visit Damiano floral store.

Melba May Blessing, 89, of Red Bank, died on Monday, February 3.

She was born in Corinto, Nicaragua to the late Eva and Patrick Blessing. Melba was a traveler. She traveled throughout Guatemala, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, and Panama to name a few. Melba met her husband George in Panama, where they married before moving to Venezuela. In 1969, Melba moved to the United States after the passing of her husband.

Throughout her life, she made an incredible impact through their generosity, love for animals, passion for travel, and commitment to caring for the elderly.

Melba is predeceased by her parents and her husband George Blessing.

She is survived by her son, Mario and his wife Ana Blessing of Hillside, grandchildren Karen Blessing, Eva Blessing, and Mario Blessing, and 8 great-grandchildren.

In honor of Melba’s wishes, all services will be held privately.

For messages of condolences, or to share a favorite memory of Melba, please visit her page of tribute at www.HolmdelFuneralHome.com

Mark Anthony Caputo, known affectionately as “Marky,” passed away on January 14, 2025, at the age of 55, at his home in Rumson, New Jersey. Born on June 28, 1969, in Newark, New Jersey, he brought laughter and joy to all who knew him throughout his life.

Marky graduated from Shore Regional High School and went on to earn a degree from Wagner College. He channeled his creativity into a successful career as a Graphic Art Designer, where his keen eye and inventive spirit were highly valued.

Beyond his professional life, Marky had a rich array of hobbies that reflected his vibrant personality. He had a passion for antique shopping, finding joy in discovering treasures from the past. Music and theater were also significant parts of his life, providing him with endless entertainment and a means of connecting with others.

Marky’s legacy is marked not only by his career and hobbies but also by his innate ability to make people laugh. Described by those who knew him as having a big heart and an old soul, his sense of humor was a gift that he generously shared, leaving a lasting impact on friends and family.

He is survived by his mother, Marilyn; brother, Chris; sister-in-law, Stephanie; and nieces, Alexandria and Madison. Marky was preceded in death by his father, Mark, and his beloved dogs, Sophie and Frankie, who were the loves of his life.

The Damiano Funeral Home, is assisting the family during this time. Marky’s life will be celebrated and remembered for the laughter, joy, and kindness he brought into the world.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mark Anthony Caputo, please visit Damiano floral store.

Tom Kraeutler, 65, of Oakhurst, NJ passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, February 2nd, 2025. A beloved husband, father, brother, son, scouter, media personality, and trusted voice for countless listeners and viewers, he left behind a legacy of knowledge, warmth, and service to his community.
Born in Neptune before moving into the family home in Oakhurst, Tom was a graduate of Ocean Township High School and held a BS in Industrial Arts from Trenton State College in addition to completing an international studies program in architecture at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark.

He began his career as a woodshop teacher and then home inspector, but is best known for co-hosting The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show, which is heard on over 460 stations around the world, and its associated podcast. Tom was a household name for many who sought advice on making their homes safer, more efficient, and beautiful. His practical tips and down-to-earth guidance made him a trusted advisor to generations of homeowners.

Tom’s impact went beyond his work in radio. He served as Chairman of the National Marketing Support Committee of Scouting America. In this role he provided invaluable strategy and guidance to the executive leadership of Scouting. He was a leader of the national media teams for four national Jamborees and the World Scouting Jamboree. In 2022, he was awarded the Silver Antelope, one of Scouting’s highest awards to adults for outstanding service to youth. He was an avid supporter of Troop 71 in Oakhurst. Whether on-air or off, he touched the lives of all who were lucky enough to know him personally.

Tom is survived by Susan, his loving wife of 35 years; his children, Thomas, Sara and Trevor, of whom he was immeasurably proud; sisters, MaryBeth and Lisa; and mother, Josephine. He was predeceased by his father Kenneth. He is also survived by many treasured nieces and nephews.
A viewing will be held on Friday, February 7th from 2-4PM and 5-8PM at Fiore-Buckley Funeral Home, 236 Monmouth Road, Oakhurst, Ocean Township. Funeral Mass will be offered on Saturday, February 8th at 1PM at the Church of St. Anselm, 1028 Wayside Road, Tinton Falls, NJ. A private burial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Summit Bechtel Scout Reserve Staff Association, the organization that provides a gateway to adventure for America’s youth: https://donations.scouting.org/?#/council/NCFD/appeal/7692.

We recognize Tom had an international network of friends and colleagues, many of whom will be unable to attend on such short notice. Please leave your contact information at the following link to be updated on a Celebration of Life to be held at a later date: https://forms.gle/1pSqXnGr4W1HzT4QA.

Tom’s work and his spirit will live on in the countless homes he helped improve and the many lives he touched through his kindness and expertise. He will be missed but never forgotten. For condolences, please visit www.fiorefuneralhomes.com.

Nettie Pearl Melvin, 85, was born to the late Deacon Homer F. Credle and Roseaddie Smith Credle on Monday, July 10, 1939, in Mesic, NC. She peacefully departed this life early Monday morning on January 20, 2025, at Hackensack Meridian Health Ocean University Medical Center, with her family by her side.

Nettie was baptized at an early age at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Mesic, NC. She was educated at the Mesic Community School and graduated from Pamlico County Training School in 1958 in Bayboro, NC.

Nettie moved to Red Bank, NJ, raised her family, and became a long-time member of Pilgrim Baptist Church. She moved to Tinton Falls, NJ in the early 1990’s.

Nettie worked at Leon’s Laundromat in Red Bank, NJ before beginning her nursing career at the Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital, from where she retired. She was an Eastern Star Martha Chapter #37 O.E.S – P.H.A. at the Masonic Hall in Red Bank, NJ.

While raising her children in Montgomery Terrace, Red Bank, NJ – she was referred to as “MOM MELVIN” and as THE WOMAN WITH THE GARDEN’S IN THE FRONT AND BACK YARDS.

Nettie is preceded in death by her husband Eddie Melvin, son Maurice Melvin, daughter Linda Pearl Credle; siblings, Homer Credle Jr., Herman L. Credle, Harold Credle, Ella Mae Jackson, Guy Lovett Credle and Ruby Sawyer.

Nettie leaves to cherish her memories, daughters Suzanne Young (Paul) and Leona Melvin; son Christopher Melvin, Sr. (Kysha); Brothers Glenwood Earl Credle of Red Bank, NJ and Samuel Whitehurst (Cherry) of Spotsylvania, VA; sisters: Neva Ruth Branch, Joyce Marie O’Neal of New Bern, NC and Laula Elizabeth Allen of Garner, NC, a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Howard Jack Panken, 82, passed away on January 29, 2025, in Neptune, NJ. Born on June 29, 1942 in Newark, Howard was a man of humor and generosity, known for his endless jokes and captivating stories.

Howard attended primary school in Belmar and Asbury, graduated from Asbury Park High School, and furthered his education at New York University. He spent his career as a dedicated sales representative in the garment industry, specializing in women’s clothing. His professional life was marked by a natural charisma and an ability to connect with people, traits that served him well both personally and professionally.

A veteran of the US Army, Howard served honorably from 1969 to 1971, during which time he was stationed in Korea amidst the Vietnam War. His stories from his service, filled with laughter and light-heartedness, left a lasting impression on all who heard them. Howard had a unique ability to find humor in nearly every situation, his generous spirit, and his unwavering support for his loved ones will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Howard’s passions included visiting the racetrack and following various sports. He was rarely seen without his baseball cap and a race program in hand. His love for sports extended beyond personal enjoyment as he enthusiastically supported the games of Jimmy and Andrea Pappas, treating them as his own family.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Edith Rosen Panken and Max Panken; his sister, Harriet Blank; and his brother, Arnold Panken. His life was one of active engagement with his community and unwavering support for his family, including his sister Harriet whom he cared for devotedly. He is survived by his dear lifelong friend Carole Pingitore of Ocean; Carole’s sister Patty Pappas and her husband Jimmy; his nephew Jimmy Pappas and his wife Alyssa; his niece  Andrea Pappas and his great nephew, James Pappas.

A memorial gathering will be held at the Damiano Funeral Home in Long Branch on Friday, February 7 from 12 pm until the time of the service at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, an organization close to Howard’s heart. 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 Howard Jack Panken, please visit our floral store.

Frances B. Caprio, 91 of West Long Branch, passed peacefully on Monday February, 3rd at Serenity Hospice, in Hamilton, NJ.

Mrs. Caprio was born in Long Branch and had lived in West Long Branch most of her life. She loved her dogs, shopping on QVC Network, and watching Hallmark movies. Fran loved to sew and was an avid reader of romantic and dramatic novels. Mrs. Caprio loved her Cadillacs.

She was a long time parishioner of St. Jerome’s RC Church.

Fran was pre-deceased by her husband, Ernest Caprio; her son Robert Caprio; her daughter Michelle Caprio-Conway; and her grandson, Nicholas Hayes.

Surviving is her grandson, Billy Conway and his partner, Taylor Morano; and her great-granddaughter, Dakota Garden.

Visitation Monday, February 10^th, 4 to 7 pm at the Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home, 10 Morrell Street, Long Branch. Funeral services, Tuesday, Feb. 11^th at 11 am, at the funeral home. Entombment will follow at Woodbine Mausoleum, Oceanport.

To share a favorite memory of Fran, please visit her page of tributes at www.woolleyboglioli.com.

Regina Lenora Gray-Rodriguez, born on August 12, 1948, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2025. Her life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and love for her family and community. Regina began her journey of service by joining the Job Corps at the age of 19. She later pursued a career in caregiving, earning her CNA certification and dedicating over 30 years as a private home care nurse. Her compassion and commitment left a lasting impact on those she cared for.

Earlier in life, she also worked as a barmaid at Esquire, where she formed many cherished connections. A devoted member of the Metropolitan African-American Baptist Church in Richmond, VA, Regina found strength and solace in her faith. Outside of work and church, she had a passion for shopping—especially at Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, and DSW—and enjoyed exploring flea markets. Her love for clothes and shoes was legendary among those who knew her.

Regina was the beloved daughter of Rena G. Henderson and Reginald Clay and was raised by her mother and father, Richard M. Henderson. She is survived by her husband Eric Rodriguez, her loving daughter Michelle E. Richards and son-in-law Dennis Richards ; grandchildren Jason Sutton- wife (Vianca Sutton) and grand daughter Arlisa Reid ; great-grandchildren Kamira Sutton, Khadeem Sutton, Nori Sutton, Naima Sutton, and Marquise Stevenson; as well as a special niece, Ramea Austin Williams. Siblings: Julia M. Jones (the late Robert Jones), Jean E. Huff, Robert “Bobby” Henderson (the late Valerie Henderson), Florine Duncan (Dennis Duncan), and Joy E. Pegram. Sister-in-law Yolanda Rodriguez-Jeter. Mother-in-law Mary Rodriguez. Two bonus daughters Victoria Storts and Natalie Aman. She was predeceased by her sister Sheila Dabney (James Dabney) and daughter Monique Gray.

Regina’s warmth and generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those she touched throughout her remarkable life.

A memorial gathering took place at the Damiano Funeral Home, located at 191 Franklin Avenue in Long Branch, on Sunday, February 2, .

The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Regina Lenora Gray – Rodriguez, please visit our floral store.

Louis “Sonny” Calabretta passed away peacefully the evening of Tuesday January 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Long Branch to Joseph and Florence Calabretta, Sonny was the oldest of their three children. He was a star basketball player for Long Branch High and drew crowds at every game with people coming out to see “Bucker” Calabretta.

Sonny met his future wife when they were just 11 years old. He and Sugie graduated in the Long Branch High School Class of 1952 and were married October 2, 1954. He was a Sergeant in the National Guard and worked with his family at Joseph Calabretta Inc, the block company. During this time, they had two children.

Sonny built the family home in Oakhurst and they moved there in 1971. When Joe Cal Inc was bought by Clayton Block Company, Sonny went with the new company where he remained working with the Clayton family until he retired at the age of 75 in order to spend more time with his wife and their family.

Sonny was an avid sports fan. He nearly played basketball professionally until he blew out his knee while attending Monmouth College. He played soccer, baseball, softball, and tennis for many years with various teams and friends. He traveled frequently with his family. He loved having his whole family surrounding him and being the patriarch. He played the accordion and piano and made a mean breakfast. He grilled a great burger and mixed many drinks in his time.

Sonny had a story for every occasion and would never fail to make you laugh. He was generous to a fault and always believed the best of people. There aren’t enough words to describe how much his family loved him and his unconditional love back. There aren’t enough words to describe how much he will be missed.

Sonny was predeceased by his beloved wife Sugie Calabretta (nee Klappholz) in 2020 and his son-in-law Noah Mann in 2023. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Wayne and Betty Ann Calabretta of Jackson; his daughter Lori Mann of Neptune; his granddaughter and her husband Kristen and Jim Clanton of Neptune; his granddaughter Jaime DeSantis of Oakhurst; and his great-granddaughter Bryce Clanton of Neptune.

Bette White Charniga Fernandez, a beloved dancer, teacher, and mentor, passed away peacefully in Long Branch, NJ, on January 26, 2025. Born on April 15, 1929, in Wilmington, DE, Bette began her lifelong passion for dance at the age of eight.

Bette’s career took her to New York City, where she studied under legendary instructors such as Martha Graham, Hanya Holm, Gregory Hines, and Luigi, whose jazz stylings influenced her teaching for decades. She performed as a dancer, model, actress, and singer, most notably as a member of the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes from 1949 to 1952 before stepping away to start her family.

In 1954, Bette began teaching dance while raising her children. After settling in Maplewood, NJ, she opened the Bette White Dance Center, which became a cherished community fixture. Over the next 50 years, Bette shared her passion for dance with thousands of students, crafting a legacy that remains today through Inspirational Dance, led by her former student, Dancette Pratts.

Her dedication to inclusive teaching was extraordinary. She developed dance programs for deaf and blind students, as well as a “Chair Tap” program for disabled individuals. In 1979, she was the first dance teacher to be featured in Dance Teacher magazine, a testament to her reputation as a pioneer in the field.

After retiring in 2007, Bette continued to teach at the Long Branch Senior Center and West Side Christian Academy, where she inspired students of all ages. She also participated in the “Shore Senior Legend Showcase” from 2008 to 2012. Bette found deep joy in teaching Sunday School for 12 years and leading two special dance ministries, “His Kids.”

Her Christian faith was the foundation of her life, and she carried it into everything she did, from her teaching to her relationships. She believed in living out her faith by serving others, sharing kindness, and spreading joy through dance and fellowship.

Beyond dance, Bette loved the beach and her life in Long Branch, where she collected sand dollars and coral.

Bette is predeceased by her son, William Charniga (1974); her husband, Enrique “Ricky” Fernandez (2013); her parents, Neva Force White and William E. White; and her sisters, Flora Jean Hansen and Gertrude Street.

She is survived by her children and their families: Rick and Mary Charniga, Kim and Charlie Weiss, Mark and Mary-Ellen Charniga, and Kerry and Matt Humphreville; six grandchildren: Jessica Schmidt, Jamie Charniga, Erin Charniga, Charlie Weiss, Katie Pron, and Cai Charniga; and seven cherished great-grandchildren Calvin, Carson, Gavin, Winter, Violet, Tyler, and Ryan.

In lieu of flowers, Bette’s family asks that you honor her memory by performing an act of kindness for someone in need, as a reflection of Jesus’ love. Let her legacy of love, faith, and generosity inspire you to share your gifts with others, just as she shared the joy of dance with 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 Bette White Fernandez, please visit Damiano floral store.

John H. Lamoreaux, 59, of Long Branch, passed away on Friday, January 24, 2025. He was born in Long Branch and lived on Long Island before moving back to Long Branch. He was a graduate of Hoppague High School in 1983. He worked for the Borough of West Long Branch Department of Public Works for 19 years. He was predeceased by his father, John H. Lamoreaux in 2010 and his step-father, Arthur Nardiello in 2006.

Surviving are his mother, Partrica Tallman Nardiello; brother, James Lamoreaux; sisters, Jennifer Baugus and Jacqueline Duarte; his uncle, Joseph Tallman; his nieces and nephews and many cousins.

Visitation was Feb 1, at the Fiore Funeral Home, 882 Broadway. West Long Branch. For condolences, please visit www.fiorefuneralhomes.com.

George Menake, 82, of Colts Neck passed away on Saturday, February 1st.

George was born in Brooklyn, NY to his parents, James and Margaret Menake (nee Buzolich.)

George was a Hostler for the New York City Mounted Police before retiring.

George was a protector and a provider for his family. He was very hardworking and ambitious. He was the rock of the family. George’s interests consisted of weight lifting, working outdoors, landscaping, planting trees and flowers, golfing, and playing pool. He also was very artistic and liked to draw portraits and sketch.

He is predeceased by his parents, and his brother, John Menake.

He is survived by wife, Lorraine Menake; his children, Janet Menake of Staten Island, Daniel and Lori Menake of Colts Neck; his brothers, Thomas Menake and his wife Georgianna, and Daniel Menake and his wife Barbara; and his grandchildren, Danielle, James, Tatum, and Daniel; and his nieces and nephew.

George’s legacy of strength, dedication, and creativity will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Visitation is Friday, February 7 from 2pm – 6pm at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 S. Holmdel Road, Holmdel. A Funeral Home Service will be offered at 5pm.

For messages of condolence, or to share a favorite memory of George, please visit his page of tribute at www.HolmdelFuneralHome.com

Charles “Charlie” Yingling, aged 62, of Leonardo, NJ, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2025. Born on February 4, 1962, in Toledo, Ohio, Charlie was a spirited and beloved figure in his community and family.

Charlie spent his career at The Borough of Tinton Falls, where he was known for his dedication and hard work. Outside of his professional life, Charlie was a passionate Raiders fan, often spending Sundays engrossed in football games. He also enjoyed playing pool, especially with his son Zachery, and cherished vacations and time spent with his wife, Tammy.

Charlie was the life of the party, known for his outstanding dance moves, infectious laughter, and knack for telling the best jokes. His outgoing and loving nature made him a joy to be around, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.

He is survived by his wife, Tammy Yingling; his brother, Larry Yingling; his sons, Kevin Covert and his wife Tanya, and Zachery Covert and his wife Danielle; and his daughter, Amanda Burbank and her husband Cody. Charlie was also a proud grandfather to Taylor, Micah, Sage, Gracie, and Carson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Lucy Yingling.

A service to celebrate Charlie’s life was held on Saturday, February 1st, from 11am to 1pm, at Damiano Funeral Home in Long Branch, NJ. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Charlie’s memory to his GoFundMe page https://gofund.me/998acfb1

Charlie Yingling’s warmth, humor, and vibrant spirit 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

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Charles K. Yingling, please visit Damiano floral store.

Melvin “Trey” Moultrie, III, aged 21, passed away in Montgomery, NY on January 11, 2025. Trey was born on June 23, 2003, in New York, NY, to Kieshia and Melvin Moultrie, Jr. He grew up in Middletown, NY, and Long Branch, NJ. Trey attended Long Branch Public Schools and graduated from Long Branch High School in 2021. A proud member of the Green Wave football team, he wore #58 and played as a defensive end and defensive tackle. After high school, he continued his football journey at Milford Academy in New Berlin, NY, and Post University in Waterbury, CT.

Trey was known for his infectious smile, boundless energy, and magnetic personality. He had an incredible gift for lifting the spirits of everyone around him, often through playful pranks and heartfelt conversations. Whether in a room full of friends or spending time with family, Trey’s presence was always full of warmth and light.

A deep thinker and natural conversationalist, Trey earned the nickname “The Little Professor” as a child. His eloquence, creativity, and artistic talent shone brightly in all he did. Recently, he poured his passion into creating a “Wakanda-like” comic book series, meticulously designing characters and crafting a rich storyline that reflected his visionary spirit.

He is predeceased by his maternal grandfather, Rodney Charles Tucker, his paternal grandfather, Melvin Moultrie, Sr., his godmother, Tonya Nettles, and his uncle, Jermaine Corbett, Sr.

He is survived by his mother Kieshia Moultrie, and his father, Melvin Moultrie, Jr. (Latorra); his sisters, Melanie Moultrie and Meliyah Moultrie; his brother, Ivan Jackson; his great-grandfather, Willie Ward; his maternal grandmother, Patricia Jackson, his paternal grandmother, Della Moultrie, his aunts, Telisha Jno-Charles (Odell), Rhonda Jackson, Sheree Mack (Cedrick), Lynn Lewis, Cynthia Jackson; his uncles, Rodney Jackson, Darnell Lewis, Tyrone Horne, Sean Williams, Gregory Prescod (Stephanie), Andrew Ponton, and the love of his life, Aaliyah Chanel Brown.

He leaves to mourn his cousins Daniel Jackson, Miguel Paredes, Taiya Lewis, Messiah Horne, Kiyah Horne, Jermaine Corbett, Jr., Madison Lewis, Sarai Horne, Jha’Ryyah Corbett, Nala Jno-Charles, and Amina Jackson; and a host of family members and friends who loved him dearly.

Linda Persico, 75, of Marlboro, passed away peacefully late Thursday evening.

Linda has resided in NJ for the past few years but was a true Brooklyn girl at heart. She was born and raised in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn where she married and raised her own family as well. Linda is survived by her children Jay Persico and his wife Jackie, Andrea Brigante and her husband Anthony, Daniel Persico and his wife Meaghan along with her beloved grandchildren Anthony, Hailey, Jameson, Ryan. and Johanna.

Linda was supremely dedicated to her family, especially her grandchildren who affectionately referred to her as “Bobo”.  She took great pride in being the matriarch of her family as her mother was before her.  Outside of her family, Linda loved to travel, especially cruises, she also loved to eat out at restaurants and playing cards with family and friends.

Linda was deeply loved and will be missed by all her family and friends as her kindness and generosity was deep and genuine.

At the request of the family Linda will be privately cremated and a memorial mass will be offered on Saturday, February 8th at 10:00 AM at Most Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Church, 133 Amboy Rd, Matawan, NJ 07747.

Nicholas Martin Racioppi, 85, passed away peacefully in his home in Monmouth Beach, NJ on January 21, 2025. Born on December 28, 1939, in Newark, NJ. Nicholas was a man of honor, known for his dry humor not everyone could understand and his tough, yet unconditional love. He served his country as a member of the United States Army from 1958 to 1961, proudly wearing the uniform and dedicating himself to the values instilled during his service.

After his Military Service, Nicholas launched a successful career as a master plumber, founding Seaview Plumbing and Heating. His reputation for integrity and skill was well-known, and later, he transitioned to a civil service career at Ft. Monmouth, NJ. Starting in the plumbing hall, then eventually moved to contracting at CECOM, where he worked until his well-deserved retirement in 2009.

Nicholas was not only passionate about his career but also about his hobbies. An avid sports fan, especially of boxing and the NY Giants. He also cherished his time on the water. As a devoted boater, he spent countless hours clamming and generously sharing his haul with others at local bridges, friends and family.  While at home he taught his granddaughter Julia how to fish and how to catch crabs in a trap. Nick would then bring them inside, boil them on the spot and sit down with a big bowl of butter to enjoy them with her.  His kindness and generosity were as boundless as the waters he loved.

His heart was also in the kitchen. With culinary skills just as notable as his generosity. Making his world famous meatballs or even more spectacularly, on Christmas Eve, where he would lovingly prepare the Feast of the Seven Fishes; a cherished Italian tradition that brought joy and unity to his family and friends. Making every meal and every cherished moment with Nick, unforgettable. Nick loved his home and the family he grew inside of it. That he now leaves behind.

Nicholas is survived by his wife, Mary Jo Racioppi; his sons, Martin and Nicholas Racioppi; and his granddaughter, Julia Racioppi. He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret Esposito and Martin Racioppi, and his sister, Ann Marie Racioppi Smith.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105 Web: http://www.stjude.org/, a charity close to Nicholas’s heart and a testament to his generous spirit. His life was a profound blend of service, humor, and love, deeply felt by all who knew him.

The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Nicholas Martin Racioppi, please visit Daniamofloral store.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Shirley Ann Brown-Veney, who was born on November 25th, 1945, in Altavista, VA. She was the youngest of six children born to Daisy Stone-Brown and Gordon Brown. Raised in Montgomery, West Virginia, Shirley graduated from East Bank High School in June 1964. Shortly after, she moved to New Jersey to join her siblings.

Shirley began her working career in New Jersey, taking on various roles while also assisting her family with babysitting duties. She cherished her life as a beloved daughter, sister, and aunt until she met Carroll Veney, whom she married on March 16, 1969. Together, they welcomed their first child, Carl Anthony, on December 12, 1969, followed by their daughter, Angela, in April 1973.

Shirley dedicated her adult life to the electronic assembly field, working for notable companies such as E.A.I, Bendix/Allied Signal, and Wheelock Inc. During her time at Wheelock, she served as a Union Shop Steward, known for her expertise in union procedures and her unwavering advocacy for her fellow members. She retired due to a disability but remained the backbone of her family, providing love and support to all.

A devoted family woman, Shirley found joy in collecting movies, watching television reruns, and savoring her vast collection of wine and drinking glasses. She loved road trips, shopping with her children, and attending family functions. Described as kind and sweet-spirited, Shirley preferred intimate gatherings over large crowds. Her love for her family was unwavering, and her relentless work ethic was admirable. She was fashion-conscious, wise, and fiercely protective, always ready to comfort those in need. While she had a great sense of humor, she also had a feisty side, reminding everyone that her kindness should not be taken for weakness.

Shirley is survived by her daughter Angela of Lewisberry, PA, her son Carl of Las Vegas, NV, her brother Arthur Clayton Brown of Ft. Myers, FL, and a host of nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her husband Carroll, her sisters Mary Lou, Ella, Pearl, and Onnie, her brother Andrew, and her parents Daisy and Gordon.

Shirley will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.