Filomena P. Simonelli

Mrs. Filomena Pauline Simonelli, affectionately known as "Phyllis," passed away peacefully on October 25, 2024, in Cedar Grove, NJ, just shy of her 99th birthday.

Phyllis was born and raised in Newark, NJ, where her life was marked by resilience and strength. During World War II, she served as a welder for Eastern Aircraft, contributing to the war effort with skill and dedication.

After the war, Phyllis married the love of her life, Joseph A. Simonelli, Sr., with whom she shared many years of devotion and joy. Together, they made a home in East Orange, raising a family before moving to Verona in the 1960's. Phyllis later enjoyed a rich retirement in Mt. Laurel before eventually returning to Verona, where she became an active member of the Verona Seniors community.

A faithful parishioner of Our Lady of the Lake Church, Phyllis was a cherished member of her community and beloved by her family, especially her grandchildren, to whom she was a devoted grandmother. Known for her culinary talents, Phyllis will be remembered for her warmth in the kitchen and the love she shared with family and friends through her meals.

Phyllis was predeceased by her husband, Joseph, her son-in-law, Frank Schumell and her siblings, Angelina DiPaolo, Anthony DiPaolo and Pauline Monticello.

She is survived by her loving children: Rosanne Vivolo (Richard), Marie Simonelli (Liz Benne), Jo-Ann Schumell and Joseph A. Simonelli, Jr. (Bettye Marie). She also leaves behind her adored grandchildren, Michael J. Schumell (Julia), Alana Kantor (Jonathon), and Danielle Schumell, as well as her treasured great-grandchildren, Henley and Jordyn Kantor and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Phyllis's memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, and her legacy of resilience, love and faith will be remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

Visiting will be held in the Prout Funeral Home, 370 Bloomfield Ave, Verona, NJ, on Monday, October 28 from 6-8 pm. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Lake Church, 28 Lakeside Ave., Verona on Tuesday at 10 AM. Entombment will follow at Gate of Heaven Mausoleum in East Hanover.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Verona Rescue Squad,12 Church Street, Verona, NJ 07044 (www.veronars.org) or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (www.stjude.org) would be appreciated.

Condolences, photos and memories may be left on her obituary page at proutfuneralhome.com.