Obituaries from February 2014 Issue

GRIFFITH – Judith Arlene Griffith (nee Blemings), age 67 of Clarksboro passed away on Jan. 24 at home. Raised in Mantua, she has been a resident of Clarksboro since 1980. Judy worked at Sony Music in Pitman for 39 years. She enjoyed her summers at Lake Kandle with her husband and spending the winter months in FL.

Wife of Ronald W. Griffith, she is survived by her three brothers, Thomas, Earle, and Jeff Blemings, 3 sisters, Sara Tunstall, Darlene Glass and her husband John, and Audrey Hutchinson, and many nieces and nephews. Judy was predeceased by her brother Emory Blemings and his wife Marlene (surviving are their children William, Shawn, and Kelly Blemings), sister-in-law Jean Blemings, sister-in-law, Earleen Blemings, brother-in-law Robert Tunstall, brother-in-law Edward Hutchinson, and nephew Emory Blemings.

Interment in Eglington Cemetery, Clarksboro. Contributions may be made to the American Lung Association, 1031 Route 22 West, Suite 203, Bridgewater, NJ 08807. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.smithfhmantua.com.

GREGOR – Samuel Gregor Jr., age 81 years, of Clarksboro, died Jan. 26 in his home surrounded by his family. Mr. Gregor was born in Camden, raised in Gloucester and lived in Clarksboro for over 40 years. He retired from Philadelphia Marine Terminal after many years of service as a longshoreman. Mr. Gregor was a member of the Road Knights of Car Club in Pennsville and he enjoyed building hot rods and helping his friends with their cars.

He is survived by his beloved wife of over 40 years, Shirley Gregor of Clarksboro; his children, Samuel Gregor III of Mantua, Sindy and Pat Hoban of Collingswood, Sherri and Barry Ray of Franklinville, Robert and Diane Horner of Marlton, Susan West of Clarksboro; 14 grandchildren; 3 great granddaughters, and his brother, Peter and Nancy Gregor of Thorofare.

Services were held in the McBride-Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Interment Eglington Cemetery, Clarksboro. Contributions can be made in his memory to the American Heart Association, PO Box 417005, Boston, MA 02241-7005. Memories can be shared at www.mcbride-foleyfh.com.

JONESRoxAnne Manfredi Jones, age 70, of Clarksboro passed away on Jan. 27. Beloved and cherished daughter of the late Joseph R. Manfredi and Dorothy Manfredi (nee Stone). Loving mother of Theresa Jones. Cherished grandmother of Mark and Christopher Fiorella.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of RoxAnne Jones.

RASTELLI – John D. Rastelli passed away peacefully at his home on Jan. 26, surrounded by his family. He was 91. John was born in Wilmington, DE on June 18, 1922. He lived in Paulsboro and Clarksboro all of his life.

John was a World War II veteran, and served in the 11th Armored Division. He fought in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Austria. He participated in the liberation of Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge, and the liberation of Mauthausen and Gusen, concentration camps in Austria. Among the service medals he was awarded, John was a recipient of the Bronze Star and the Distinguished Service Medal.

In 1956, John was instrumental in implementing the CYO Program at St. John’s Church, Paulsboro. He coached several sports, and maintained the program for decades.

He was a devoted fan of the Paulsboro High School football and wrestling teams. While in good health, he never missed a game or match. For many years, John kept meticulous stats for each wrestler on the team. At the yearly sports banquet, he presented a detailed book of their performance to each team member.

John was inducted into the Paulsboro High School Sports Hall of Fame in 1994 and into the Gloucester County Sports Hall of Fame in 1997. In 2007, the South Jersey coaches and officials presented John with an award citing his outstanding contributions to the wrestling program.

John worked as a Maintenance Supervisor for the Mobil Oil Corporation for 43 years before retiring in 1975. The Mobil #1 ball field bears his name.

John volunteered for many organizations including those of St. John’s Church, Union Activities, United Way, Pegasus Club, Knights of Columbus, Amvets of Gloucester County, National Association of the 11th Armored Division, Sons of Italy, and the Phillies Welcoming Committee.

John is survived by his wife, Martha Misero Rastelli, daughters Janice (Robert) Rastelli-Minor, Julia (Edward Robinson) Rastelli, and predeceased by his son John Jr., (Mary). John was the proud grandfather of 7; great grandfather of 4. He is survived by brothers and sister Dora (Alex) Croce, Italo (Isabella), Anthony (Judy), Jean (Eugene) Wachter, Rita Gallagher, and predeceased by Lillian (William) Trueax. He was loved by many nieces and nephews.

Interment Eglington Cemetery, Clarksboro.

Donation may be made to either the Veteran Assoc.: AMVETS Post #77, 934 Mantua Blvd, Sewell, NJ 08080 (AMVETS.org), Alzheimer’s Assoc. of Delaware Valley, 399 Market St, #102, Philadelphia, PA 19106 (alz.org), Samaritan Hospice, 33 Haddon Ave., Westmont, NJ 0810 (samaritanhealthcarenj.org).

GEBHARD – Diana M. Gebhard (nee Wasdick), 84, of Mullica Hill passed away Jan. 26 at home.

Born in Philadelphia, she lived in Westville and graduated from Woodbury High school. She attended Glassboro State Teachers College and worked for Columbia Records before moving to Bound Brook, NJ. She lived in Ringoes, Hunterdon County for 30 years before moving to Mullica Hill with her beloved husband, Bill, to whom she was married for 43 ½ years. She loved astronomy, railroading, the Phillies, Spring Lake and Sandy Hook, Civil War history, nature and birds, reading her many books, and classical music.

Predeceased by her dear husband, William H. Gebhard Jr., Diana is survived by her sister, Virginia Wasdick of W. Deptford, a niece and three nephews, and her beloved cat companion, Julia.

Interment Eglington Cemetery, Clarksboro.

Contributions are requested to the Gloucester County Animal Shelter, 1200 N. Delsea Drive, Clayton, NJ 08312.

Thoughts and prayers may be extended to the family at www.fertigfuneralhome.com.

SHUTE – Melvin C. Shute, age 85 years, lifelong resident of Repaupo, died Jan. 28 surrounded by his family in Inspira Health Center, Woodbury. Mr. Shute retired from Mobil Oil Company in Paulsboro after 20 years of service as a pipefitter. Prior to that, he worked for Hercules Company for many years. He was an exempt member of the NJ State Firemen’s Association and the Repaupo Volunteer Fire Company where he was also a past Chief and served as their President for 30 years. Mr. Shute was a lifelong member of the Repaupo United Methodist Church, where he served as trustee for many years; the Paulsboro Sportsmen’s Club, and the Logan Township Senior Citizens Club. He was an avid Phillies Eagles and NASCAR fan, sometimes watching all three at once. Mr. Shute also enjoyed gardening on his family homestead.

He is survived by his children, Susan and Dennis Yarborough of Repaupo, Mark S. and Bonnie Shute of Millville, PA, Kevin and Kim Shute of Jacksonville Beach, FL, Janet and Ron Curtice of Repaupo, Claudia Shute of Repaupo, Donna and Chris Minix of Gibbstown; his grandchildren, Josh Shute, Jaclyn Shute, Nicholas Chambers, Aaron Shute Kelli Shute, Jason Curtice, Justin Curtice, Amanda Minix, Abby Minix, DJ Yarborough; his great grandchildren, Liam Chambers and Aine Chambers; his companion, Betty Howarth and his special caregiver, Angel. Mr. Shute was predeceased by his beloved wife Patricia Shute; his granddaughter, Jennifer Curtice; 3 brothers and 6 sisters.

Services were held in the McBride-Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Interment Eglington Cemetery, Clarksboro.

Contributions can be made in his memory to the General Fund of Repaupo Methodist Church, c/o Mabel Gaventa, 192 Repaupo Station Rd., Logan Twp., NJ 08085 or the charity of your choice.

LITTLE – Michael E. Little Jr., age 38 of Mickleton, passed away Feb. 2 after a long courageous battle with melanoma. Born in Woodbury, he has been a resident of Mickleton all his life. Michael worked at Riverwinds Golf Course in West Deptford. His passion was playing his guitar. Mike played in various bands and gave lessons to children at Old Towne Music and The Music Place. He was an avid Philadelphia sports fan especially the Phillies.

He is survived by his mother, Dale (nee Kershaw), his sister, Carrie Dobson (nee Little) and her husband Arret of Pittsgrove, three nephews, Gerry, Samuel, Curt Michael, the love of his life, Nicole Cesare of Clementon, his grandmother, Mildred Kershaw of Mantua, and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Mike was predeceased by his father, Michael “Bear” E. Little, Sr., his grandparents Curt and Helen Little, and his grandfather, Al Kershaw.

Michael’s family would like to thank everyone at Vitas Hospice for their support. Contributions in Mike’s memory may be made to Make-A-Wish New Jersey, 1347 Perrineville Rd., Monroe Township, NJ 08831 and Melanoma Research Foundation, PO Box 759329, Baltimore, MD 21275-9329 or at www.melanoma.org. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.smithfhmantua.com.

JUMP – Ronald Jump, 79, of Mullica Hill, passed away suddenly on Feb. 3 at his home.

Survived by daughter Echo of West Deptford; son Robert of Mullica Hill; grandchildren Danielle, Christian, Paige and Christopher; nephews George of Mullica Hill and Richard of Clayton.

Thoughts and prayers may be extended to the family at www.fertigfuneralhome.com.

BAY – Ruth H. Bay (nee Hankins) age 78 years of Bridgeport died Feb. 5 in her home surrounded by her family. She lived most of her life in Bridgeport. Mrs. Bay retired after 18 years of service as Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent of Schools in Logan Township. Prior to that, she was the Logan Township Municipal Clerk for 20 years and was also appointed mayor, serving the town for two years. She enjoyed working and spending time with her family. Mrs. Bay was known for her generosity and kindness to others.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Norman Bay; her son, Timothy Bay and her grandson Jason Croce. Mrs. Bay is survived by her daughters, Pamela and Michael Croce of Alloway, Patricia Bay of Mickleton, Penelope and John Davis of Mickleton; her grandchildren, Joshua Croce, Jaratt and Anthony Bay, John and Karlie Davis; her great grandson John Davis III; her sister, Marian and Joseph Yoroshko of Mantua and her companion, George Boone of Millville.

Services were held at the McBride-Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Contributions can be made to Holy Redeemer Hospice, 521 Moredon Rd., Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006; Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.

BREECE – Roblyn V. Breece (nee Schuenemann) of Swedesboro, died on Feb. 6. Age 71 years.

Beloved wife of the late Lee Breece. Dear mother of Christopher (Cara) Vollmer, Duane (Nicole) Breece, Deborah Marino and Charlotte Jones. Loving grandmother of Michael, Nicholas, Anastasia, Gregory, Katarina, Riley and Layla.

Roblyn was a 1959 graduate of Collingswood High School, a 1963 graduate of Duke University and receive her Master’s Degree from the University of Pennsylvania. She taught Spanish for 27 years at Collingswood High School. She also was a member of Red Hat International and active in the Four Seasons Weatherby Community.

Contributions may be made to Together Youth Shelter, 301 Greentree Rd., Glassboro, NJ 08028.

FISH – Nancy C. Fish (nee Corson), age 75 years, of Mickleton died Feb. 7 surrounded by her family. Nancy was born and raised in Mt. Ephraim and after graduating from Audubon High school became a stewardess for United Airlines. This started her passion for traveling with her husband and family during his career in the Navy. After his retirement in 1983 they settled in Mickleton where Nancy then taught for 20 years in the East Greenwich School System. After her retirement she continued to teach English as a second language and she enjoyed volunteering; delivering meals on wheels. She was a member of the Little Red Schoolhouse and continued to enjoy traveling.

She was the beloved Mother of Daniel and Olga Fish of Madison, WI, Julie and David Zlogar of Chester Springs, PA, Andrew Fish and his wife Marianne Miozzi-Fish of Avondale, PA; adoring grandmother to Jacob, Annaliese, Evan, Karl, Gavin and Mia; and also survived by her brother, Robert and Nancy Corson of Barrington, RI. Nancy was predeceased by her beloved husband of 50 years, Benjamin Fish Jr.

Services were at the McBride-Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Interment Eglington Cemetery, Clarksboro. Contributions can be made in her memory to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.

KORPICS – Anna Korpics, (nee Doncsecz), 80, of Mullica Hill passed away on Feb. 8 at home.

Formerly of Nazareth, PA (10 years) and Rahway, NJ (15 years), Anna was born in Hungary and came to the US in 1958 after living in London, England for 1 ½ years. She worked at Regina Corporation for 20 years. She was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother and wife.

Beloved wife of 59 years to Stephen Korpics, devoted mother of Frank (Diane) of Hamilton Twp., and the late Stephen Korpics, loving grandmother of Matthew and Lauren, dear sister of Joseph Doncsecz of Leighton, PA, Margaret and Eddie Doncsecz of Hungary. Anna was also predeceased by her parents Frank and Anna (Gaspar) Doncsecz and a brother, Frank Doncsecz.

Interment St. Joseph Cemetery, Woolwich Twp. Thoughts and prayers may be extended to the family at www.fertizfuneralhome.com.

WHARTON – Raymond J. Wharton age 86 of Repaupo died Feb. 16 in Vitas Hospice, Stratford. Mr. Wharton was born and raised in Repaupo and graduated from Paulsboro High School. He was a veteran serving in the United States Navy during World War II. After his return home, he worked for several years for Ace Motors; leaving to work for Eastlack’s Service Station in Paulsboro. When Mr. Eastlack retired, Ray took over the station and it became Wharton’s Atlantic Station and he operated it for 17years. When the station closed, Mr. Wharton worked for Consumers Oil and then Walt’s Auto Parts in Paulsboro. He then sold real estate for Glocker Realty in Carneys point. Mr. Wharton enjoyed harness racing, NASCAR races and attended several Indianapolis 500 races. He truly looked forward to his Monday morning coffee klatches with his friends.

He is survived by his son, Bruce Wharton and his fiancée, Denise Wurtz of Carney’s Point. Mr. Wharton was predeceased by his wife, Viola Wharton and his parents, Raymond and Lois Wharton.

Services were held at the McBride-Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Interment Eglington Cemetery, Clarksboro. Contributions can be made in his memory to the Gloucester County Animal Shelter, 1200 N. Delsea Dr., Clayton, NJ 08312. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.

BRUNO – Marian T. Bruno, (nee Leone) age 81, of Mullica Hill died suddenly on Feb. 16.

Stirring a pot of meatballs and pasta, dressed in her favorite apron, and surrounded by family, grandchildren, and friends in her kitchen is how Marian felt most at peace. She will be remembered by many dear friends as a kind and generous woman who enjoyed the comforts of home, and preparing a delicious meal for anyone who stepped through her door.

Beloved wife of 59 years to Leonard J.; devoted mother of Stephen (Eileen), Carla Caswell (Tim), and Paul (Lisa); cherished grandmother of Nicholas, Sean, Lauren, McKenna, Nichols, Samantha, Giorgio, Antonio, and Julia; dear sister to Grace Arena, Anthony, Salvatore, and the late Sandy, Josephine, Ernest and John; adored aunt to many; and a warm friend to many hearts she touched.

Donations may be made in Marian’s name to the Lew Body Dementia Association at: LBDA, 912 Killian Hill Rd,. S.W. Lilburn, GA 30047, www.lbda.org or Samaritan Healthcare, 5 Eves Dr., Suite 300, Marlton, NJ 08053, wwwlsamaritanhealthcarenj.com.

Tributes and memories may be shared at www.mcgfuneral.com.

OCHIPINTI – Petrina (Beatrice) Ochipinti (nee Brigandi), 89, of Mullica Hill went home to be with the Lord on Feb. 21.

She was born to the late Peter and Maria Brigandi, July 4, 1924 in Philadelphia. Mother of John Ochipinti (deceased) and his wife Elizabeth; grandmother of their nine children, Veronica Menard (Peter, deceased), John (Jeanine), Christopher, Theodore, Cara, Petrina, Corrine, Stephanie and Nicholas Ochipinti; and great grandmother of Isabella Ochipinti. Survived by sisters Josephine Pino and Rita Canzanese. Predeceased by brothers Carmen and Natale Brigandi and sisters Concetta Donato, Rosaria Ochipinti and Salvatoria Pavia. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews, who endearingly referred to her as Little Caesar.

Beatrice was a seamstress in the Gaunt/Bendinger sewing factory in Mullica Hill for 52 years. She was an independent woman and took pride in her work, a skill that was also appreciated by her family.

She was a loving mother and grandmother, and one of her greatest joys was the large family gatherings for which she prepared delicious meals. She liked to toil in the soil and loved showing off her beautiful roses and vibrant gardens. She also looked forward to the annual family trips to the Pocono Mountains.

Interment Eglington Cemetery, Clarksboro. Thoughts and prayers may be extended to the family at www.fertigfuneralhome.com.

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