MELSON — Gary Melson Jr., 45. Gary had an unusual talent, a cookie maker especially chocolate chip. He was known among township residents from his activities of volunteering at the Mount Royal Fire Hall, mowing lawns, and riding his John Deere green tractor up and down Kings Highway, dragging his trailer full of weed whackers, rakes, shovels, and trash cans. He spent many of his younger years with local volunteer firemen as a member of the East Greenwich Fire Department.
Gary loved trains and enjoyed leisure hours working on his train table, making crafts, drawing and coloring, and assembling LEGO fire stations and trucks. He loved to tinker in the garage taking things apart and fixing things and making small wooden birdhouses. Christmas was his favorite time to work on his house where he would string the ramp with hundreds of lights and plant his hand made wooden Christmas tree out front. He was a graduate of Kingsway Regional High School and Gloucester County Institute of Technology where he earned a certificate in landscaping.
He was predeceased by his mother, Mary Ann Melson (Marino), and grandparents Mary and Charles Marino. He is survived by an aunt, Joan Cannon, cousins: John and Bryce (Amy) Cannon, Kathy Oakley and many second cousins of the Slusarski and Marino families. Donations in memory of Gary made to East Greenwich Fire Department, 5 Cohawkin Rd., Clarksboro, NJ 08020 will be appreciated.
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BECKETT — William “Bill” Harley Beckett age 85 years of Mickleton, died Oct. 21 in Deptford Center for Rehab & Healthcare, Deptford, NJ, after a short illness.
Bill was born in Akron, Ohio, where he lived for the first 23 years of his life. He graduated from Buchtel High School in 1951 and entered the University of Akron in 1952 where he graduated in 1956 with a Degree in Engineering. Bill’s engineering work was at General Motors in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and for over 40 years at RCA (later purchased by GE) in Moorestown, NJ.
As a project engineer, he worked on guidance systems for intercontinental missiles and design of missiles and spacecraft tracking systems. He later became the Engineering Project Manager of a GE section in charge of developing computer programs for Navy projects; retiring in 1993.
Bill’s volunteer work included serving on a county committee that worked with juveniles who have had minor offenses with the law, and helping people prepare their income taxes. He served as Corresponding Secretary for a local senior citizens group, and more recently was on the board of the East Greenwich Commission on Senior Services and the Country Walk maintenance association. He was also a member of the Buchtel High School class reunion committee.
Bill was very involved in genealogy, where he tracked records of family members from long ago. He was an avid reader, gardener and enjoyed traveling in this country and abroad.
He is survived by his wife, Joann (Jo) White; his daughter, Linda Sharon Hitchcock of Henderson, Nevada; his son, Bill James Beckett of Voorhees; his grandchildren, Rebecca Hitchcock Wilde, Heather Hitchcock and Jonathan Hitchcock; his great grandchildren, Caitlyn Rebecca Wilde, Chase Allen Wilde, Cody William Wilde, Jude Jonathan Hitchcock, Jacob Jefferson Hitchcock and Lila Rose Hitchcock; his sisters, Patricia Schleicher and Barbara DeCrane, both of Akron, Ohio and many loving nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his first wife, Bettie. A Memorial Service was held at the McBride – Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his memory to the William Beckett Endowed Scholarship Fund in Engineering at the University of Akron, Department of Development, Akron, OH 44325-2603. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.
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LEONE — Blanche I. Leone (Severns), age 89, of Mickleton passed away Oct. 22.
Blanche was a farmer/homemaker. Blanche loved living on the farm, trips to the market where she spent time talking with friends, visits to the ocean, musicals and cowboy movies, and making children smile. She would jump behind the wheel of any tractor or truck as long as she could reach the pedal. She was a steadfast protector of her family and what she thought was right.
Predeceased by her beloved husband of 60 years, Alfio Leone, Jr., she will be missed by her children, Alfio III (Patricia), Blanche Wean (Bruce) and Karen Leone de Nie (Michael), 5 grandchildren, Luci Sheehan, Alfio Leone IV (Jennifer), Brian Wean (Victoria), Joel Wean (Desiree), and Eli Leone de Nie and 8 great-grandchildren, Nicky, Lexi, Bella, Harper, Sarah, Tim, Rebecca and Matthew.
Donations can be made to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, PO Box 781352, Philadelphia, PA 19178. www.CHOP.edu/giving 267.426.5332. Memories and condolences can be shared at smithfhmantua.com.
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CROCE — Alfred Robert Croce, age 78, of Clarksboro, passed peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Oct. 23.
Al, known by some as Duke, was a profoundly devoted family man. His true joy in life was spending his days with his wife, five children and eleven grandchildren all together. Sometimes found fishing on Lake Champagne, hunting, kayaking and laying on the beach in Sea Isle City, cheering on his Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies, cooking the perfect eggs with Haines bacon and homemade seasoned fried potato breakfast or taking pride in keeping an exquisitely manicured lawn. However, Al was usually and preferably found daily at one or more of the grandkid’s sports games, 3:20 p.m. school pickup, letting out his canine grandchildren, fixing anything that needed fixing, and running all over town just because his wife said their kids needed something. He proudly protected his loved ones, supported without judgement, and had an uncanny ability to connect with everyone in his path in a sincerely deep and positive way. He was simply THE BEST!
Al was born in Swedesboro and raised in Pitman before moving to Clarksboro where he remained. He was employed with E.I. DuPont for 36 years where he felt lucky to meet his amazing wife and some of his lifelong friends.
Beloved husband of 44 years to Sheryl L. (nee Burns); devoted father of Robert Croce (Janet), Deborah Greenberg (Arthur), Dana Christenson (Roger), Deanne Hughes (Bill), and Danae Ciociola (Fran); phenomenal Pop-Pop of Lindsay, Leah, Arthur, Alexa, Colton, Billy, Bella, Gabrielle, Raina, Breanne, and Rocco; adored son of the late Florence (nee Enick) and Vito Croce; dear brother to Roberta Englehart (John) and Stephen Croce (Linda); treasured uncle and friend to many.
Donations may be made in Alfred Croce’s name to the UPenn Mesothelioma Research Fund at giving.aws.cloud.upenn.edu/. share the memories … share love … ShareLife at www.mcgfuneral.com.
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GOODWIN — Tanya L. Goodwin, 49, of Woolwich Township. At work she was all work, but at home she was a joyous mom. Everything in Swedesboro from the fire department to the municipal works ran like a top thanks to Tanya, a borough clerk for the ages.
Always a tomboy, she excelled in sports at Upper Darby High. And she never lost her competitive spirit: if her kids beat her in board games, cards or horseshoes they knew it was a legit win. Later in life she bowled at Woodstown Lanes. Though as competitive as she was, she did lose one battle. After a few cordials on her son’s 21st birthday she took on a mechanical bull: bull won, her ankle shattered.
Tanya’s Tivo was full to the brim of The Young and the Restless and The Bold and the Beautiful. Relaxing times found her heading off to the Outer Banks, drinking a little wine, eating crabs and avoiding the beach. Her shoe collection put Imelda Marcos to shame.
Even in death Tanya gave life through her organ donations with the Sharing Network.
Family vacations found three-year-old Tanya Norsworthy meeting a kid named Bill Goodwin who was eight. Fifteen years later they’d start dating. Their 30-year marriage was blessed by two children: Brooke (Ryan) Goodwin-Hurst and Billy. She is survived by her parents, Patricia and Kenneth Norsworthy; her parents-in-law, Bill and Charlotte Goodwin; and her sister, Nicole English (Mark).
Interment Lake Park Cemetery, Woolwich Township. Donations to St Jude Hospital (Stjude.org) will be appreciated.
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BROWN — Melvin J. Brown, 72 of Woolwich Township, passed away at home, Oct. 26 with his family at his side.
Born in Houston, Texas, Mel worked for NASA as a Software Processor for 22 years and has been retired for the last eight years. He had resided in Woolwich Township for the past six years. He was an avid reader and was passionate about sailing.
Mel is survived by his wife Josephine (nee Ferone), his step-children, Elizabeth (Anthony) Gambino and Matthew (Cheryl) Manganelli, his grandchildren, Madison, Alyssa and Melissa and sister, Dorrette Townsen.
Services were held at the Cheega Funeral Home, Swedesboro. Contributions in his memory to the American Cancer Society, c/o cancer.org. would be appreciated.
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MINIX — Joseph D. Minix Sr, age 55, of Bridgeport passed away Oct. 27.
Joe was a graduate of Paulsboro High School and was certified in welding and fabrication. He was a great outdoorsman who enjoyed deer hunting, ducking, goose hunting, small game, muskrat trapping, snapper catching. Most of all fresh and salt water fishing.
Joseph is survived by his children Christine Crowthers of Paulsboro, Timothy Minix- Shawna Minix of Zephyr Hills, FL, Joseph Minix Jr. of Zephyr Hills, FL, Amanda Minix of Paulsboro, grandchildren Nick, Gavin, Larry, Paisley, Levi, also his parents Joan and Robert Minix Sr., sisters and brother Cathy Morris-Morgan Morris of Mays Landing, Robert Minix- Cheryl Birmingham of Newark, DE, Patti Minix- Joe Spirra of Bordentown, NJ, Susanne Taraschi of N. Cape May, NJ.
Donations can be made to Lighthouse Hospice or St. Clare of Assisi Parish. Memories and condolences can be shared at smithfhmantua.com.
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RISELL — Edward Hart Risell Jr., age 69, of Mullica Hill, formerly of Ardmore, Haverford, and Lansdowne, PA, passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 29.
Ed was a graduate of Lower Merion High School, Class of 1967, and Temple University, Class of 1971. Dedicated and beloved teacher in the Ridley School District for 35 years. Ed was active in community theater, such as Narberth, Swarthmore, Footlighters and St. Thomas Players.
Predeceased by his parents. Survived by his loving spouse of 39 years, Brock Kelly LeBonne (Bud), and his faithful dog Beau.
Memorial donations may be made to Leedom Elementary School, c/o Edward Risell Memorial Fund, 620 East Chester Pike, Ridley Park PA 19078. Condolences at www.FERTIGFUNERALHOME.com.
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MACCARONE — Samuel J. Maccarone age 94 years of Woolwich Township passed away peacefully on Oct. 30 in Samaritan Hospice, Voorhees, with his family by his side.
Sam was a lifelong Swedesboro resident who, together with his wife, Jean, owned and operated Early Acres Farm for over 65 years. They were true partners who not only cultivated the land and raised vegetables but cultivated and raised a family whom they cherished and who surrounded them on a daily basis.
Sam was a faithful member of St. Clare of Assisi Parish, St. Joseph’s Church in Swedesboro where he was a devoted helper of the St. Joe’s and St. Alfio Committees. Sam also served on the Planning Board for Woolwich Township for many years. In his “free” time he enjoyed spending days with his loving family and friends, going to farm sales, and enjoying his beloved farm. His quiet strength, dignified presence, advice and honesty were respected and sought out by all who knew him.
Sam was a genuine man who spoke gentle and confident at the same time. His words carried weight as a father figure to many. His laughter, his smile, and those beautiful eyes with so much wisdom and the occasional mischievous twinkle will be sorely missed.
He is survived by his children, Sara (Pete) Battaglia of Logan Township, Vernon (Patti) Maccarone of Mickleton, Michael (Rose) Maccarone of Gibbstown, and Anthony (Christina) Maccarone of Woolwich; his grandchildren, Nina, Matthew, Samuel (Jessica), Gina, Michael, Anthony, Andre, Dante, Alina, Gianna and Isabella; his beloved sisters, Catherine Garozzo of Woolwich Township, Angelina and his “brother” in law, Tom Grasso of Monroeville; his beloved in laws, Sadie (Bill) McCart, Mary Sorbello, Freda Earnest, Michael Nicolosi, Alfred (Peggy) Nicolosi and Betty Nicolosi. Sam was predeceased by his beloved wife of 63 years, Concetta “Jean” Maccarone, his son, Samuel Maccarone Jr., his parents, Venerando and Rosaria Maccarone; his brother, Joseph Maccarone and his sister, Mary Chila.
Arrangements by McBride – Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Memories can be shared at mcbridefoleyfh.com.
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DeSIMONE — Agatha “Ida” DeSimone (nee Garozzo), age 100, of Clarksboro passed away peacefully in her home on Oct. 30. Ida, affectionately known as “Nonnie”, dearly loved her family and was always ready to lend a helping hand. She spent countless hours working on the family farm, and her door was always open.
Ida was a very active member of the Incarnation Church of Mantua, the Altar and Rosary Society, the 1918 Club, and a volunteer for the American Red Cross Blood Mobile. She was extremely generous in donating time and money to various causes.
Ida was born in Swedesboro on Aug. 3, 1918 and married her late husband Joseph in 1937. Soon afterwards they purchased the family farm on Jessup Mill Road.
Wife of the late Joseph DeSimone Sr., Ida is survived by her children, Anthony J. DeSimone, Michael A. DeSimone, and Bridget Cacioppo, nine grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren and sister, Rita Marino. She was predeceased by her sons, Joseph Jr. and Samuel A. DeSimone, brother, Angelo “Bud” Garozzo, sisters Angelina Cannavo and Sister Mary Garozzo, as well as her grandson, Anthony “Nino” DeSimone, Jr.
Donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Memories and condolences can be shared at smithfhmantua.com.
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McATEER — Rose V. McAteer (nee Cappello), 90. She lived to make other people happy: her restaurant, Rosie’s Diner, brought many a smile to many a customer. It was a natural transition for her since she was raised in her family’s restaurant and farm. It was more of a joy than a job. Pumpkin pie from scratch may have been her best recipe, but her pizzelles were nothing to scoff at. Later years found her at the Colonial Diner and Helen’s Greentree Restaurant: she never wanted to give it up.
If not in the kitchen she’d be showing off her green thumb: Rosie could take a sliver of a plant and sprout a garden from it. She also spent a little time working at a tie factory: everyone at her church would benefit from the ties she brought home.
But she was really meant to be a grandmother; at Christmas Nanny had stockings full of candy for her 16 grandchildren, 30 great-grands and three great-great grands. She was a loving mother, but you’d better be ready to duck quickly if you got out of line. Rosie was always up for a good time: Aged to Perfection Seniors Club will never forget her Halloween Bumble Bee Costume.
Rose was the wife of the late Oliver and mother of Rosemarie DelPiano, John Oliver, Sandy (Bill) Burleigh, Debbie Clements, Michele (Lou) Tirado, the late Millard Oliver and the late Linda Payne. She is survived by her sister, Angie Casella.
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ROBINSON — Dr. Michael Robert Robinson of Mullica Hill.
Dr. Michael Robert Robinson is survived by his wife, Kristin Ross Robinson of Mullica Hill and was preceded in death by his father, Robert Michael Robinson. Dr. Robinson is also survived by his mother, Corinne Dee Robinson, and her husband, Richard E. Hodina of South Carolina; his brother, John David Robinson, Sr. and wife, Tracy Hayman-Robinson; his nephew, J. David Robinson II; his niece, Jenna Doris Robinson, all of Salisbury, MD; his sister, Christine Robinson, PhD of Harrisonburg, VA; his sister-in-law, Amy Ross Bradl, and his nephew, Andrew Peter Bradl of Bradenton, FL.
Dr. Robinson was in partnership with Family Practice Associates of Washington Township, NJ. He graduated from Wicomico County Senior High School with honors, and from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, with two distinct and consecutive degrees of Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science, an achievement never before or since accomplished at the university. He attended the Medical School of Osteopathic Medicine in Des Moines, Iowa, where he was vice president of his senior class.
He will be greatly missed by his beloved wife, family, friends, and patients. He was a well-known and passionate animal lover, as well as an avid Star Trek fan. Donations can be made to Alley Cat Allies, Inc., 7920 Norfolk Ave., Suite 600, Bethesda, MD 20814.
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STRING — Marie M String (nee Maccarone), 77, of Harrisonville, passed away peacefully at home on Nov. 3. Beloved wife of Alvin Jr., daughter of the late Joseph and Antoinette Maccarone of Woolwich, loving mother of Butch, Joe, Michael (Liz), Ann Marie Jones (O.J) and predeceased by Peggy Kirsch (Michael), grandmother of Tanner, Maxine, Olivia, Audrey, Kevin, Austin, Kira and Rocco.
Mary owned and operated her hair salon for 50 years. She was an avid reader and enjoyed waving to the passersby from her porch. She was active in her church, community and family engagements.
Memorial contributions in her memory can be made to the charity of one’s choice. Please visit www.htlayton.com to leave a note of condolence to the family.
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COLES — Lewis K. Coles, 92, Bridgeport. Lewis was born May 25, 1926, in Pedrickown, NJ. He was eighth of 10 children born to Isaac and Anna (Cook) Coles. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Beverly (Creamer).
Lew served in the US Navy during WW II on a destroyer in the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. He went on to work for E I DuPont Co. for 36 years. After retirement he spent a majority of his time with the Boy Scouts. He eventually served at the District Level and earned Prestigious Awards such as the Wood Badge and the Silver Beaver. His love of scouting spread in the family as he had a son and three grandsons earn the Eagle Scout Award.
Lew loved gardening, camping with his family, and woodworking. He was an active Kiwanis member and Trustee at his church.
Lew and Beverly were blessed with five children; Lewis (Judy), Mark (late Ellen), Faye (Michael) Jones, the late Jeffrey, Diane (late Thomas) Branco, as well as 10 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
Donations made to St. Paul’s Church, P.O Box 133, Bridgeport NJ 08014 in memory of Lewis will be appreciated.
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BELLOCCHIO — Anthony Bellocchio, age 94 of Mullica Hill, passed on Nov. 6. He was born January 24, 1924 in Philadelphia, PA, and had been a resident of Mullica Hill for over 55 years. Beloved husband of the late Patricia Bellocchio. Devoted Father of Sandy, Susan Donovan (Brian), Joseph (Cheryl), Mark, Caroline, and predeceased by son Michael. Cherished Grandfather of Michael, Rose, Shane, Toni, Joseph, Matthew, Michael, Brittany, and Anthony. Great Grandfather of seven. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Anthony was a proud World War II veteran of the U.S. Army.
Memories and condolences can be shared at www.smithfhmantua.com.
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VERA — Rosalia Vera, 85, of Swedesboro, passed away Nov. 9 at Southgate Healthcare Center in Carneys Point. Born in Puerto Rico, she came to the Swedesboro area in 1964 and married the late Wilfredo (Freddie) Vera.
Surviving are her daughters, Wanda (Joel) Rios and Maribel (Nelson) Vazquez, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, two siblings in Puerto Rico, and she was predeceased by her grandson, Miguel Rivera, Jr.
Arrangements by the Cheega Funeral Home, Swedesboro.
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SPICER — Paul L. Spicer, age 73, of Mullica Hill passed away Nov. 9 with his wife of 52 years and children by his side.
His greatest joy in life was time spent with his family. Paul, a proud United States Air Force veteran, started as a Marine Machinist for the Department of Defense. His passion and drive for learning led him to become a Mechanical Engineer over 30 years later.
Paul’s optimistic personality was a joy to all who crossed his path. “Spiceman” will be missed by many.
Husband of Patricia E. (nee Reagan), also survived by children Patricia Spicer-Martin (Edward), Paul L. Spicer Jr., John Spicer (Michelle), Louis Spicer (Joanne), and 10 grandchildren. Predeceased by son Timothy.
Memories and condolences can be shared at smithfhmantua.com.
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SINCLAIR — Beth Sinclair aged 67 years passed peacefully at home, surrounded by family on Nov. 11 over three years after cancer had become part of her new normal. She is predeceased by her parents, Evelyn and Allen Schwartz, and William Scharra. She is survived by her daughter Jenifer Langer (Jeffrey). Her grandchildren Liam (16), Helena (14), Evelyn (13), and Buron (11), siblings Kathryn Thomas (William), William Scharra (Jane), Jayne Lynch (William), many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, and wonderful friends.
Beth spent 38 years working with the amazing people at Subaru of America. She also spent many years working and worshipping with her family at The Catholic Community of the Holy Spirit. Besides her family, friends and Church, she was most proud of the fact that at the age of 65 she received her Master’s Degree in Sacred Theology, having not begun her college journey until she was over 50.
She has asked that you do not grieve but celebrate her many. Contributions to The Catholic Community of the Holy Spirit, 17 Earlington Ave., Mullica Hill, NJ 08062 would be appreciated. Thoughts and prayers may be extended to the family at www.FERTIGFUNERALHOME.com.
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BLACK — Alvin D. “Shorty” Black, age 91 of Swedesboro, died Nov. 13 in Friends Village in Woodstown.
Born in Swedesboro, he was the son of the late Fred D. Sr. and Clara (nee Shaw) Black. Alvin was a 1947 graduate of Woodstown High School, and he, along with his family, owned and operated Hereshome Farm, the family dairy farm in South Harrison Township.
Alvin farmed with his brother, Robert, until his mid-80’s. The farm earned the “Dairy of Distinction” award, and it is now preserved farmland. Alvin enjoyed farming, and he also enjoyed
serving his community. He was very active over the years in his church, St. John’s United Methodist in Harrisonville, where he had been a lifelong member. He also was a long time member of the Harrisonville Fire Department, where he served as Treasurer for over 40 years. He served on the South Harrison Twp. School Board for over 10 years, and was active with Harrisonville Grange. He was a very social person, enjoyed conversation with anyone, and was excellent at relating to people. Recently, he had been in the loving care of Friends Village for the past two years.
Alvin is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Debbie (nee Stetson) and Ed Falter and Denise (nee Black) and Ernie Barlow; his grandchildren, Dana (nee Falter) and Eric Rodilosso and Eddie Falter; his brothers, Fred D. Black, Jr. (and Dorothy) and Robert L. Black; his sisters, Caroline (nee Black) Ridgway and Clara “Dolly” (nee Black) and Ron Strobel; and many nieces and nephews, and their extended families. In addition to his parents, Alvin was predeceased by his wife of 45 years, Sarah A. (nee Catling) Black in 2011; his sister, Edith Black; and his brother-in-law, William Ridgway.
Burial in Lake Park Cemetery in Swedesboro. Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s United Methodist Church, PO Box 2, Harrisonville, NJ 08039. Please visit www.htlayton.com to leave a note of condolence to his family.
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VICERE — Carl P. Vicere, 74, of Mullica Hill passed away on Nov. 15, surrounded by his family. Carl was born in Salem and was the son of John and Pauline (nee Casey) Vicere.
Carl retired from Exxon Mobil as a Lab Technician after 27 years of service and he recently retired as Chairman of the Board for Fort Billings Federal Credit Union. Carl also served in the United States Army from 1963 to 1966. Carl coached Paulsboro Midget football for 12 years and also served as President of the organization. He was a past member of Paulsboro Sportsman’s Club and the Sons of Italy.
Carl enjoyed the beach, fishing and golfing, but what was most important to him was spending time with his family and friends. He was especially known for his sense of humor and his fun-loving personality.
Carl is survived by his wife Cathy (nee Duca), daughter Kimberly (Vicere) Layton, son-in-law David and son Carl A. Vicere and wife, Janice. He also is survived by his sister Loretta Gray and five grandchildren, Amanda, Morgan and David Layton and Carl F. and Genevieve Vicere.
In Carl’s memory, the family has requested donations be made to The Leukemia And Lymphoma Society, Donor Services, PO Box 98018, Washington, DC 20090-8018 (LLS.ORG).
