Lifelong Asbury Park Resident Destiny Smith Promoted to Boys & Girls Club Chief Impact Officer
March 16, 2026
Long Branch Celebrates Women’s History Month
March 18, 2026
Betty Lovgren Justus passed away peacefully surrounded by her family and friends on March 11, 2026, in Oceanport, NJ, at the age of 90. Born on March 31, 1935, in Sea Bright, NJ, her life was a testament to her unwavering spirit and her enduring commitment to her family.
Betty’s early years were spent in the scenic surroundings of Sea Bright, where she grew up with her loving parents, Harry and Bridie Lovgren, and her late brother, Thomas C. Lovgren. She was a graduate of Long Branch High School, where she formed lifelong friendships and laid the foundation for her future endeavors.
Her professional journey was marked by her dedicated service at the Department of Army, Fort Monmouth, as Chief of the Pay Examination Branch within the Finance and Accounting Division.
Betty’s passions were simple. She loved spending time at the beach with her friends and family. Her grandchildren were the center of her universe, she cherished every moment spent with Kendl Ullman and her husband Doug, Alex Ferencz and his wife Anna, Bridget Manning and her fiancé Javi Bustamante, and Hunter Manning and partner Meaghan Hellmers. Betty was also a doting great-grandmother to Harper Ullman, Killian Ullman, and Rio Bustamante, who kept her young at heart.
Betty’s legacy is carried on by her devoted daughters, Kathleen Keenan Paulin and her husband Tom, and Karen Keenan DiBerardino and her husband Bob. Her family was her greatest accomplishment, and she took immense pride in their achievements.
Predeceased by her parents, her beloved husband, her daughter Kelly Ann Keenan Manning, and her brother. Betty’s memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She was a woman of extraordinary character, whose presence was a comfort and whose love was a gift.
Visitation will take place on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at the Damiano Funeral Home, 191 Franklin Avenue in Long Branch, NJ 07740, from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm. Visitation will also take place from 10:00 am until the time of service at 10:30 am on Wednesday, March 18. Entombment will follow at Woodbine Mausoleum in Oceanport.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105 Web: www.stjude.org.
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 Betty L. Justus, please visit our floral store.
Joel Freedman, 85, of Ocean, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Joel was born in Brooklyn, NY and served his country honorably in the National Guard. Joel was a part-owner and president of Freedman Bakery with his brother Herbert. Freedman Bakery was started by Joel’s father and grandfather. He was a member of Temple Beth Miriam. Joel traveled frequently to Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. He loved classical music and gardening. He grew both flowers and vegetables.
Joel is survived by his wife, Ronnie; his son Stephen Freedman, New York City; his sister & brother-in-law Karen & Arthur Becker, Shrewsbury and his grandson Joseph Freedman.
Funeral service was held Friday, March 13 at the Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home, 10 Morrell Street, Long Branch. Burial to follow in Beth Miriam Cemetery, Neptune.
For messages of condolence, please visit Joel’s page of tributes at www.woolleyboglioli.com.
Jim Hughs – Some people pass through life quietly, while others leave a lasting mark on everyone who had the opportunity to know them. Jim was one of those people.
At the age of 62, Jim passed away after a long illness, joining loved ones who had gone before him on February 27, 2026.
Born on January 3, 1964, in Somerville, NJ, Jim grew up surrounded by family, laughter, and the experiences and stories he would later share with anyone who would listen. From an early age, he showed a spirit that was uniquely his own—funny, adventurous, and quick-witted.
As a child, Jim loved the outdoors and often joined his sister Maureen in catching tadpoles, turtles, fish, and even mice, sneaking them into the house and surprising their parents with their new “pets.” Jim excelled in sports, playing baseball, basketball, and football throughout high school. He was part of the Somerville High School state championship team in 1979.
Jim also displayed a creative side, enjoying working with his hands through carpentry, drawing, and car repairs. He loved creating school projects with his children, James and Brielle, and his nephew Dylan. Later in life, you could often find him fishing for striped bass along the beaches of the Jersey Shore or working in his garage, which seemed to contain every tool imaginable. Jim adored his children, his face lighting up when speaking about how proud he was of their accomplishments.
A true salesman both in his career and in life, Jim could sell anything to anybody. Coupled with his incredible sense of humor and gift for storytelling, he could entertain a room full of strangers—whether the stories were completely true or a little embellished. He had a special way of turning ordinary moments into meaningful memories…and that is exactly how he will be remembered.
Jim is survived by his beloved children, James and Brielle; his sister, Maureen Lloyd; his former wife, Bethany Dutton; and his nephew, Dylan Lloyd. He was preceded in death by his parents, Patrick and Arlene Hughes; his brother, John Patrick Hughes; his brother-in-law, John Lloyd; and his Aunt Mary.
A special thanks to Lauren and Elyse from Elder Care Management and Ester, who assisted him until his untimely passing with compassion and care.
Though his passing leaves a deep space in the lives of those who loved him, his story does not end here. It lives on in the lessons he taught, the stories he shared, and the kindness he gave so freely. Those memories will continue to bring both tears and smiles.
A private memorial and burial will be held on March 17. He will be laid to rest beside his mother and father in their final resting place.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Breakthrough T1D (formerly the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation), PO Box 5021, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5021, or at info@BreakthroughT1D.org. 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 James C. Hughes, please visit our floral store.
Martin Cid, 87, passed away peacefully at his daughter’s home in Lincroft with his family by his side on March 13, 2026. He was born on September 6, 1938, in Havana, Cuba; the middle child of Manolo Cid and Maria Luisa Magrina. Martin was raised with his brother Huberto and sister Ela. He married his late wife, Arminda Cid and together they had two daughters. Martin was full of life with an unwavering devotion to his family. His life was defined by sacrifice, generosity and love- values he carried with him from his homeland of Cuba to be the family he built and cherished in Holmdel, NJ.
As a young man, Martin fled Cuba for America. Traveling on a small boat, he endured a perilous journey that took him first to the Cayman Islands and then to Jamacia, before eventually making his way to the United States. Through hard work, he built a new life from the ground up in order to provide for his family and give them a better future.
Martin was a loving and devoted husband, a cherished son-in-law and uncle, and a proud father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His family was the center of his life and he gave endlessly of himself to ensure their happiness and well-being.
Known to his family and friends as “Pillo”, he lived up to his nickname-meaning “naughty yet charming person”. Martin enjoyed a good cigar and a glass of brandy with his friends. He was also a passionate sports enthusiast who loved watching a good boxing match and a baseball game, especially live. Above all, he loved soccer which he played as a young man.
Martin will forever be remembered for his warmth, humility, and selfless spirit. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he nurtured, and the example he set through a life well lived.
Martin was predeceased by his loving wife of 64 years, Arminda Cid. Surviving are his daughters, Yvonne Cid and Aileen Porter (Duane), his grandsons, Ernest Ageitos, Wayne Porter (Veronica) and Cid Porter, his beloved great granddaughters, Shea and Rosie; his nephew, Daniel Cid Robaina (Gelvis) and his grandnephews, Brandon and Liam.
Visitation will be held from 4pm to 7pm, Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 South Holmdel Road, Holmdel, NJ 07733. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 9:30am, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at St, Anthony’s R.C. Church, 27 Oratory Way, Red Bank, NJ 07701. Entombment will follow at Holmdel Cemetery and Mausoleum in Holmdel.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in Martin’s name be made to Christian Brothers Academy in Lincroft, a Lasallian school where Martin attended the Colegio De La Salle in Cuba. Donations may be mailed to Christian Brothers Academy, 850 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ 07738.
Daniel “Dannio” Julio, a remarkable soul whose journey on earth began on September 29, 1959, in Brooklyn, NY, concluded with grace and peace on March 3, 2026, in Asbury Park, NJ, due to natural causes. His sudden unexpected nocturnal departure from this world leaves behind a legacy of love, courage, and wisdom that has touched the hearts of many.
Dannio was a man of resilient spirit and unyielding strength, a testament to his years as a voluntary firefighter an iron worker and a decorated veteran of the Special Forces, Army, and National Guard. His dedication to his country was matched only by his commitment to his family, friends, and community. Despite the adversities of life, Dannio remained a beacon of support and kindness, imbued with the kind of courage that inspired others to rise above their own challenges.
He navigated life with a love that knew no bounds, a love that sustained him through the loss of his beloved brother Marcy Julio and sister Sabrina Epps, and a love that he instilled in the hearts of his surviving sister, Vicky Julio, his son, Daniel Julio Jr., and his daughter, AmberRose Julio. His family was his pride and joy, and his teachings, laughter, and memorable moments will forever resonate within them.
Dannio’s educational journey was grounded in the hallways of his high school, where the foundations of his character were solidified. His Christian faith guided him through life’s tempests, serving as his compass and providing solace during trying times. His interests painted the picture of a man who savored life’s simple pleasures. He found solace in the gentle lull of a fishing line, the adrenaline rush of a football game, and the companionship of loved ones. His laughter was infectious, echoing through the trees during outdoor adventures, and his dance moves never failed to light up a room with energy and joy.
Known for his playful roughhousing and his ability to captivate a crowd with inspiring speeches, Dannio’s capacity to joke and make others laugh was one of his most cherished gifts. His zest for life was evident in the way he immersed himself in music, sports, and films, always eager to share those moments with his friends and family.
As we remember Dannio, let us reflect on the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson: “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Dannio’s life was a vivid illustration of this sentiment, as he embraced the power within to shape a world around him filled with laughter, strength, and unwavering love.
In honoring Dannio’s memory, we are reminded of the wise, loving, and courageous man he was—a man who never hesitated to extend a helping hand or offer a word of encouragement. His legacy will continue to motivate and guide us, as we strive to embody the virtues he so effortlessly exemplified throughout his life. Farewell, Dannio, and thank you for the indelible impact you’ve made on all who had the privilege to know you. Your story is not one of an end, but a beautiful reminder of what it means to truly live.
Visitation was held, March 15, at the Damiano Funeral Home, 191 Franklin Avenue in Long Branch, NJ 07740, from 2 pm to 5 pm, Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church, 800 Ocean Ave N, Long Branch, NJ 07740. Interment will Military Honors will follow at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Cemetery, Wrightstown, NJ
The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link.
Joan Tufaro, 89, of Middletown, passed away Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank. Born in the Bronx, NY to Anne and John Rossi; she lived in Brooklyn before moving to Middletown 32 years ago.
Joan met the love of her life, Nick, when they were 14 years old. They were married 5 years later and raised their three children in Brooklyn, NY. They moved to Middletown, NJ in 1995. Joan loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She enjoyed vacationing in Florida and went on many cruises with her husband and childhood friends. Holidays were a favorite time of the year for Joan and she cherished her time in the kitchen cooking meals and baking for her family. In her spare time, she loved to read, knit, and attend Broadway shows.
Joan is survived by her husband of over 70 years, Nicholas Tufaro Sr., two sons, Nicholas Tufaro Jr. (Amanda), Steve Tufaro (Yolanda), one daughter, Linda DiMeo (Maurice), one brother, Stewart Rossi (Deborah) and eight grandchildren, Steven Jr. (Greila), Michael, John, Thomas (Jessica), Matthew, Nicole, Amanda and Victoria, and her grand pup, Cannoli. She is also survived by her two close childhood friends, the “Sarahs”.
Visitation will be held from 3pm to 7pm, Monday, March 16, 2026, at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 South Holmdel Road, Holmdel, NJ 07733. Funeral services will be held 10:30am on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at funeral home. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Middletown.
Benita Grant Hernandez Pernett was born on March 21, 1939, to her father, Federico Quiroz Grant and her mother, Digna Jaen Hernandez , in Colón, Panama. She passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026 at the age of 86. She leaves behind a legacy of courage, elegance, kindness, strength, and devotion that will remain with all who knew and loved her.
From an early age, her passion for beauty and style led her to study cosmetology, beginning her studies in Panama and later advancing her skills in Bogotá, Colombia. She transformed her education into a thriving career, becoming a distinguished representative for renowned brands, ultimately sparking a bidding war between Revlon and Helena Rubinstein. Revlon ultimately won her talent with an offer for higher pay.
In her teenage years, she met her husband, Carlos A. Pernett, with whom she would build her family. At the age of 21, she married and began the journey that would become the center of her life. She was a devoted mother to her sons, Carlos Jr. and Cesar Pernett, and her daughter, Ivette Pernett-Richardson, who were the pride and joy of her life. Each of her children inherited a part of her courageous spirit and strength–something that filled her with immense pride.
Later in life, Benita made the courageous decision to move to the United States in 1978, seeking a new beginning and encouraged by her sister Rosa, settling in New Jersey with her three children. This bold step opened a new path not only for her immediate family but also for many relatives who followed her lead, helping to create a larger extended family, community of friends and loved ones.
While working several jobs to support her family, she discovered New York’s Fashion District, helped supplement her income by buying and selling wholesale clothing, and eventually opened her own small boutique, Lady B Fashion, which she ran until her retirement. Her children and many grandchildren fondly remember traveling with her to New York, experiences that remain cherished memories.
Benita’s influence extended far beyond her immediate family. She had a remarkable ability to touch the lives of everyone she met. Those who encountered her were drawn to her warmth and generosity of spirit, and many were grateful to become part of her life. In return, she loved them all deeply.
She is survived by her sisters, Rosa and Hilda; her sons, Carlos and Cesar Pernett; her daughter, Ivette Pernett Richardson; her eleven grandchildren–Lizbeth, Crystal, Carlos, Thomas, Shanna, Joel Pernett, Miranda, Mya Richardson, Cesar Jr., Christopher and Ciara Pernett–and her five great-grandchildren–Christopher, AnnaLena, Andrew, Angel, and Jeffrey. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her children, family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.
Today we celebrate Benita not with a sense of loss, but with profound appreciation for the richness she brought into the world. Her story does not end here; it continues in the lives she touched, the beauty she created, and the indomitable spirit that will forever resonate in the memories of those who loved her.
Let us honor Benita’s memory by embracing her philosophy: to live life as a true adventure, meeting each challenge with courage, determination, and grace. Her life was a brilliant reflection of those ideals, and it is up to us to carry that light forward.
Benita may have taken her leave, but her spirit remains an unextinguished flame in the hearts of all who knew her.
“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” -Helen Keller.
Visitation was held on Friday, March 13, at the Damiano Funeral Home in Long Branch.
The family invites you to leave a note of condolence by selecting the tribute/guestbook link.
Benita Grant Hernández Pernett nació el 21 de marzo de 1939, hija de su padre, Federico Grant Quiroz, y su madre, Digna Hernández Jaén, en Colón, Panamá. Falleció en paz el 3 de marzo de 2026 a la edad de 86 años. Deja tras de sí un legado de valentía, elegancia, bondad, fortaleza y devoción que permanecerá con todos los que la conocieron y la amaron.
Desde temprana edad, su pasión por la belleza y el estilo la llevó a estudiar cosmetología, comenzando sus estudios en Panamá y posteriormente perfeccionando sus habilidades en Bogotá, Colombia. Transformó su educación en una próspera carrera, convirtiéndose en una distinguida representante de reconocidas marcas, lo que finalmente provocó una competencia entre Revlon y Helena Rubinstein por contar con su talento. Revlon finalmente obtuvo su talento al ofrecerle un salario más alto.
En su adolescencia conoció a su esposo, Carlos A. Pernett, con quien formaría su familia. A los 21 años se casó y comenzó el camino que se convertiría en el centro de su vida. Fue una madre dedicada para sus hijos, Carlos Jr. y Cesar Pernett, y su hija, Ivette Pernett-Richardson, quienes fueron el orgullo y la alegría de su vida. Cada uno de sus hijos heredó una parte de su espíritu valiente y su fortaleza, algo que la llenaba de un inmenso orgullo.
Más adelante en su vida, Benita tomó la valiente decisión de mudarse a los Estados Unidos en 1978, en busca de un nuevo comienzo y animada por su hermana Rosa, estableciéndose en Nueva Jersey con sus tres hijos. Este audaz paso abrió un nuevo camino no solo para su familia inmediata, sino también para muchos familiares que siguieron su ejemplo, ayudando a crear una familia extendida más grande y una comunidad de amigos y seres queridos.
Mientras trabajaba en varios empleos para apoyar a su familia, descubrió el Distrito de la Moda de Nueva York, donde complementó sus ingresos comprando y vendiendo ropa al por mayor, y eventualmente abrió su propia pequeña boutique, Lady B Fashion, la cual dirigió hasta su jubilación. Sus hijos y muchos de sus nietos recuerdan con cariño los viajes a Nueva York con ella, experiencias que permanecen como recuerdos muy preciados.
La influencia de Benita se extendió mucho más allá de su familia inmediata. Tenía una notable capacidad para tocar la vida de todos los que conocía. Quienes la encontraban se sentían atraídos por su calidez y generosidad de espíritu, y muchos se sentían agradecidos de formar parte de su vida. A cambio, ella los amó a todos profundamente.
Le sobreviven sus hermanas, Rosa e Hilda; sus hijos, Carlos y Cesar Pernett; su hija, Ivette Pernett Richardson; sus once nietos—Lizbeth, Crystal, Carlos, Thomas, Shanna, Joel, Miranda, Mya Richardson, Cesar Jr., Christopher y Ciara —y sus cinco bisnietos—Christopher, AnnaLena, Andrew, Angel y Jeffrey. Su memoria vivirá en los corazones de sus hijos, su familia, sus amigos y todos aquellos cuyas vidas tocó.
Hoy celebramos a Benita no con un sentimiento de pérdida, sino con una profunda gratitud por la riqueza que aportó al mundo. Su historia no termina aquí; continúa en las vidas que tocó, en la belleza que creó y en el espíritu indomable que resonará para siempre en los recuerdos de quienes la amaron.
Honremos la memoria de Benita abrazando su filosofía: vivir la vida como una verdadera aventura, enfrentando cada desafío con valentía, determinación y gracia. Su vida fue un brillante reflejo de esos ideales, y ahora nos corresponde a nosotros llevar esa luz hacia adelante.
Benita puede haber partido, pero su espíritu permanece como una llama inextinguible en los corazones de todos los que la conocieron.
“La vida es una valiente aventura o no es nada.” —Helen Keller
El velatorio se llevará a cabo el Viernes 13 de marzo de 2026, de 17:00 a 19:00 h, en la Funeraria Damiano de Long Branch.
La familia le invita a dejar una nota de condolencia seleccionando el enlace de homenaje/libro de visitas.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Benita Grant Pernett, please visit our floral store.
Nicholas Alicea, Jr., 76, of Morganville, died on Monday, March 9.
Nicholas was born and raised in Coney Island, NY to the late Josephine and Nicholas Alicea, Sr. He graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School, and began working in banking. In 1990, Nicholas moved to Old Bridge, where he raised his family.
He loved playing golf, dancing, rooting for the Yankees, and grilling in the summertime. Most of all, Nicholas loved spending time with his family.
Nicholas is predeceased by his parents, and his siblings Robert, Julio, and Joseph Alicea.
He is survived by his wife, Grace Alicea, his three sons, Nicholas and his wife Leah Alicea of Dahlonega, GA, Michael and his wife Lara Alicea of Colts Neck, and James Alicea of Ridgewood, his siblings Elba Alicea, Margaret Pastorino, Richard Alicea, and Judy Alicea, and seven beloved grandchildren Cameron, Callie, Mia, Corey, Isabella, Alexandra, and Alyssa.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 12 from 3pm – 7pm at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 South Holmdel Road, Holmdel. A Funeral Home Service will be offered at 6:30pm.
For messages of condolences, or to share a favorite memory of Nicholas, please visit his page of tribute at www.HolmdelFuneralHome.com
Lois Tafro, age 75, passed away peacefully on March 7th, 2026. She was born on March 18th, 1950, in Newark, New Jersey, to Hugh and Doris Addonizio.
Lois lived a life centered on love, family, and caring for those around her. She was the devoted wife of Dan Tafro of Ocean Township, New Jersey. She was a loving mother to Dan Tafro of Guilford, Connecticut, and Rachel Hoff of Ocean Township, New Jersey, and a proud mother-in-law to Stephanie Tafro and Daniel Hoff.
Lois is also survived by her sister, Carol Addonizio of Ocean Township, New Jersey; her brothers, Frank Addonizio of Phillipsburg, New Jersey, and James Addonizio and his wife Cheryl Addonizio of Berlin, New Jersey and sister in law Rachel Addonizio of Morristown; as well as many nephews and nieces.
She was predeceased by her parents, Hugh and Doris Addonizio, and her brothers, Thomas Addonizio and Joseph Addonizio.
Nothing brought Lois greater joy than being a grandmother to her five beloved grandchildren: Joseph, Alex, and Nick Tafro, and Anthony and Vivian Hoff. She cherished every moment spent with them and always made sure her family felt supported, loved, and cared for.
Lois enjoyed spending time with her family and especially loved her beach vacations in Mexico and her summer days at Loch Arbour Beach. Those moments by the ocean were among her happiest.
Lois will be remembered for her caring heart, her strength, and the way she always put family first. She spent her life looking after the people she loved, always making sure everyone around her was cared for. Her warmth, love, and guidance will live on through her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.
Visitation will take place on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the Damiano Funeral Home, 191 Franklin Avenue in Long Branch, NJ 07740, from 4 pm – 8 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 10:30 am at St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church, 800 Ocean Ave, Long Branch, NJ 07740. Interment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Hanover, NJ.
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 Lois Addonizio Tafro, please visit our floral store.
Raymond Palermo Shebell, Jr. (RJ) was tragically taken from us on February 28 at the young age of 26. Born on August 12, 1999, to Michelle Carpenter and Raymond P. Shebell, Sr., Ray Jr. was a gentle, kind and curious old soul. As the fifth child, he developed a tremendous sense of humor and a fierce independence.
He loved animals of every shape and size and was a dedicated caretaker to many, most notably, his childhood cat, Bailey who was his partner in crime for 14 years. He was a passionate learner, embracing history and diverse cultures. Ray was an excellent student, graduating from Point Pleasant High School in 2017, earning a BA in history from Stockton University in 2021, and he was just months away from obtaining a Master’s Degree in Library Science from Rutgers University.
Ray enjoyed cooking, cycling, swimming, and spending time with friends and family. He was also a music lover with the Grateful Dead being his favorite band. Inspired by his father and oldest brother, Bobby, he became an avid weight lifter. He was a gaming enthusiast and developed lasting friendships throughout the world-wide community.
Recently he resumed residency in Colts Neck while serving as a Library Assistant in Howell. We will forever cherish the humorous tales of his adventures with the Monmouth County Library System. Perhaps the most significant development of his library career was the love and friendship he shared with his girlfriend, Mae Lin Tang.
Ray is survived by his devoted parents, Michelle Carpenter and Raymond and AK Shebell; his beloved siblings Robert and Danielle Klimowicz, Nicholas and Emily Klimowicz, Shannon and Rob Drexel, and Merissa Shebell and her partner Ethan Schwartz; his adorable niece and nephews, Tommy, Sienna and Danny; his loving grandmother Mary Carpenter; his cherished aunt and uncles, Sandra Chandonnet, Patricia Shebell, Mary Shebell and Merle McCormick, Mary Carpenter, Tom and Jeannie Carpenter, and Joanne and Edward Tonini; and his numerous treasured cousins. Ray was predeceased by his grandparents, Mary and Tom Shebell, Leon (Tom) Carpenter, and uncle, Tom Shebell.
A wake was held on Thursday, March 5, at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 S Holmdel Road, Holmdel, NJ.
Robert Salvatore Graziano passed away at his home in Lakewood, New Jersey at the age of 85. He was born in Long Branch, New Jersey on April 30, 1940 to Szasti and Florence Graziano and was raised among his aunts, uncles, and cousins, mostly the Corciones, his mother’s family.
Robert was a talented football player while at Long Branch High School, and he went on to play at the Division One level while attending college in Florida. During that time, his daughter, Diana, was born, and not long after he and Carol settled down in the Long Branch area. Robert was a police officer in the city for nearly a decade. He later drove construction vehicles and worked as a sheet rocker before taking a position as a postal worker, which he eventually retired from.
When not working, Robert often spent his spare time building, fixing, and reimagining his homes, first on Morris Avenue and then on Delaware Avenue. His attention to detail and craftsmanship in everything from woodworking to plumbing to spackling were unparalleled, and his skills were often sought out by friends and family.
During the late 1970s and early 1980s, Robert volunteered as an assistant football coach, and throughout his life he maintained a love for the game – which included a passionate, sometimes bitter loyalty to the New York Giants. He encouraged his children and grandchildren to participate in sports and frequently cheered them on from the stands.
Robert was preceded in death by Carol, his loving wife of sixty-three years, and leaves behind his children, Diana, Michael (Barbara) and John (Laura); his grandchildren, Daniel (Nicole), Briana (Patrick), Robert (Amanda), Steven, Patrick (Nina), Trevor, Samuel, and Lily; his great-grandchildren, Brixton and Everest; and his beloved dog, Oliver. He was loved and will be missed.
Visitation will take place on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the Damiano Funeral Home, 191 Franklin Avenue in Long Branch, NJ 07740, from 9 am – 11am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial held at 11:30 am at St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church, 800 Ocean Ave N, Long Branch, NJ 07740. Entombment will follow at Woodbine Mausoleum in Oceanport.
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 Robert Graziano, please visit our floral store.
