Adele M. Zaccaria

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Adele  Zaccaria (Dee), age 95, on January 2, 2025. Adele was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend. She was born in July 1929, in Hackensack, New Jersey, to the late Jerry and Josephine Mottese.

Adele married her sweetheart and the love of her life, Joseph Zaccaria, in April 1951. Together, they celebrated 54 years of marriage and built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and family.  Adele and Joseph were blessed with four children: Joann Montroni (David Montroni), Robert Zaccaria (Carleen Kelly), Carol Smith (Dave Smith), and James Zaccaria (Kathleen Zaccaria).

Adele adored her grandchildren—Maria Montroni-Currais (Daniel Currais), Joseph Zaccaria (Alyson Zaccaria), Daniel Zaccaria (Lindsay Zaccaria), DJ Montroni, and Kelly Zaccaria—and her great-grandchildren—Ava Currais, Brynn Zaccaria, Scarlett Zaccaria, Cecilia Zaccaria, and Rose Zaccaria. She also leaves behind her beloved sister, Gloria Haller.

She was preceded in death by her husband Joseph in September 2005; her parents, Jerry and Josephine; her brother, Eugene Mottese; and her sister, Jean Zales.

Adele's life was marked by dedication, kindness, and an unwavering love for her family and friends. She was a hardworking woman who began her career as a business secretary, supporting lawyers, schools, and sales teams. While her career showcased her skills and determination, her true calling was her role as a wife, mother, and homemaker.

Adele raised her family in Fairview, where she became known for her exceptional cooking, hospitality, and ability to make everyone feel at home. She loved traveling, hosting parties, and spending time with those she loved.  After raising her family, she and Joseph retired to Forked River, where they enjoyed their golden years and wintered in Florida. 

Adele’s famous words throughout her life have often been, "No fight!" — a reflection of her desire for everyone to get along in peace. 

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Layton's Home for Funerals (250 W. Lacey Road, Forked River), followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 AM at Saint Pius Church (300 West Lacey Road, Forked River). Entombment will take place at 1:00 PM at Saint Joseph's Cemetery (56 Cedar Grove Road, Toms River).

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the charity of their choice. 

Adele will be remembered for her unwavering love, her warmth, and her zest for life. She touched the hearts of everyone she met, and her legacy of love and family will continue to live on in the lives of those who loved her.

May she rest in eternal peace.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Adele M. Zaccaria, please visit our floral store.