Mary C (Lucarini) Stefanoni

Mary C. Stefanoni (Lucarini), passed away peacefully on March 5, at age 96. Born to Sante and Iole Palombo, on August 25, 1926, just a few months after they immigrated from Montefiascone, Italy, Mary would often joke that she had come to America as a “stowaway” in her mother’s womb. She was born at home in Burlington, NJ, in the same house where she would grow up next door to her future husband, raise her family, and reside for nearly her entire life.

Mary was predeceased by her devoted husband of 57 years, Augustine and their beloved daughter Jacquelyn Gery, and her brother James Lucarini; she is survived by her son Gary Stefanoni and his wife Marie; son-in-law Gene Gery; granddaughter Arianna Sherlock and husband Greg; grandson Giancarlo Stefanoni; great-grandchildren Gunnar and Aila Sherlock; nephew James Lucarini and his family; and dear extended family members and friends.  

After raising her children, Mary enjoyed working for the State of New Jersey. A life-long resident of Burlington City and parishioner of St. Paul’s church, she generously volunteered her time as the wife of a former City councilman and an active member of the Altar Rosary Society. She liked to remember the good times, including many parties, trips, and summers on Long Beach Island with her Rochester cousins.

By far, Mary’s greatest role, and the one from which she got the most joy, was that of proud mother and Nonna. A spirited and pragmatic matriarch, she guided her family with a unique combination of strength and wit. She showed her love through endless expressions of care and support, always cooking and baking for weekly Sunday dinners and celebrating holidays with cherished Italian traditions. She leaves her loving family with memories that will last a lifetime.

Family and friends are welcome to her viewing on Friday, March 10, from 9:30-10:45 a.m. at St. Katherine Drexel-St. Paul’s Church, which will be followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. and interment in Laurel Hill Cemetery Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s memory can be made to the St. Mary of the Lakes (Medford, NJ) School Fund: https://www.smlschool.org/on-line-giving.

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