Victoria S Vernacchia

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of our loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother Victoria Vernacchia (Vicky) Vernacchia, (Edwardo) 97 on February 14, 2025, of Toms River, formerly of Newark and Belleville, she passed peacefully surrounded by her loving family.

 She was the beloved daughter of Mary (Papaleo) and Pasquale Edwardo. Born in Newark, NJ on September 2, 1927. She was predeceased by her husband John R. She was the loving mother of Janet Buonopane, John A. and his wife Sharon (Rawding) as well as her cherished grandson John Robert Buonopane and great granddaughter Giavanna Buonopane, and many loving nieces and nephews, each of whom carries a piece of her love and wisdom. She was per-deceased by her brothers Michael and Alphonse Edwardo and her sister Adele Cresitello.

 Vicky attended St. Lucy's grammar school in Newark, and graduated Barringer High School in 1945 after which she attended Newark Preparatory School. Vicky and Johnny grew up together and lived in the same building on Cutler Street in Newark and were childhood sweethearts where they fell in love and lived very happily until his death in 2002. When her future husband John returned home from serving in the US Navy during WWII they became engaged, and married February 22, 1948, in St. Lucy's Church, Newark, NJ.

 Vicky worked for Ronson Lighters, Newark and when her children were young she worked in Bambergers, Newark in their millinery department which she enjoyed. After the family moved she began working at Fluid Chemical, Newark as Assistant Personnel Manager until her retirement.

 In 1963 the family moved to New Street in Belleville where they had wonderful neighbors and always cherished the many summer picnics and the many get togethers and events they would share. She loved living there with her family at the home they made together. On summer days, you would find Vicky and John at their New Street home enjoying their yard and pool. Vicky and John also enjoyed many trips to the Jersey shore with their family and friends.

 Victoria’s kitchen was her sanctuary, where generations of many family and friends enjoyed her mouth watering dishes. She was an excellent cook and baker. She always had many desserts during the holidays. She was particularly known for her signature dishes, meatballs and eggplant parmigiana which was enjoyed by many and will talked about for years to come. A true Italian matriarch, Vicky’s meals were more than just food, they were an expression of love, tradition and family. Her home and cooking nurtured souls and those who were fortunate enough to experience a meal at her table realized just how blessed they were.

 Vicky lived a full long life and will be missed by her loving family.

 Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Levandoski-Grillo Funeral Home, 44 Bay Ave., Bloomfield, NJ. Valet Parking will be available at the Funeral Home.

 Relatives and Friends are invited to attend the Funeral on Friday, February 21st at 9:45 a.m. at the Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be offered at 11:00 a.m. at St. Lucy’s Church, 118 7th Ave., Newark, NJ. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Bloomfield.

 Please note, not services are taking place on Thursday due to possible snow.