Carmela Macolino

Carmela Macolino, 94, peacefully died at her son’s home in Philadelphia on September 11, 2024.

Carmela was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, to Carmine and Consiglia Trasente. She is survived by her children Gerald (Marcella) Macolino, Michael (Lee Anne) Macolino, and Lisa Ann Macolino; grandchildren Sarah (Sean) Barry, Thomas (Ellie Pritchard) Macolino, Peter (Emma) Macolino, and Rachel Macolino; great-granddaughters Emmeline and Adelaide Barry; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by Dominic Macolino, her beloved husband of 61 years; her parents; brothers Sabino, Americo, Alfred and Anthony; and sisters Josephine and Geraldine.

Carmela graduated from Essex County High School in 1948 with a specialization in dressmaking. She met Dominic in 1956 when, despite Carm’s protests, Dom’s mother arranged their first date. That date continued for over 60 years. Carm and Dom married in 1958, and started their family in Paterson, NJ. In 1965 they moved to Ringwood, NJ, where they raised their children. In 2000 they retired to Toms River, NJ.

From childhood Carm’s Christian faith was paramount. She instilled this faith into her children and grandchildren, to whom she was selflessly devoted. Carm and Dom were very active in their church, first in Marriage Encounter and later in Pre-Cana. She also worked as a cafeteria kitchen supervisor for the Ringwood Board of Education, and volunteered in the Ringwood Ambulance Corps Auxiliary.

Carm had great skills with her hands, which she tirelessly used to bless her family and others. She sewed most of her own clothes, crocheted many blankets, was an excellent cook, and made countless gifts. But her greatest gift was being able to make everyone around her feel uniquely appreciated. While not one to keep her opinion private, she simultaneously made sure you knew you were loved. She was grateful for every day of her life, right up to her homegoing.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.