(1920-2018)
Jennie Lorenzo, 98, of Leisure Knoll, Manchester, NJ passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Thursday, April 26, 2018. She joins her husband of 66 years, Charles G., and two of their children, Elaine Petrancosta and Robert Lorenzo, on their eternal journey.
Jennie was born and resided in Newark with her husband, Charles, a Newark Police Sergeant and their 7 children. She worked as a treasurer for the Pabst Blue Ribbon and NJ Transit credit unions. They moved to Union in 1975 and later to Manchester in 2004. Prior to Charles’ passing in 2009, they spent winters in Florida and traveled the world visiting such places as Italy, Hong Kong, Singapore, Austria, England and Switzerland.
As a child, Jennie lived in a cold water flat in Newark with her parents, Pasqualina and Angelo Meola, 3 brothers and 1 sister. She is survived by her brother, Ralph (95) and her sister, Mary (93). Her brothers, Rocco and Joe, pre-deceased her. Jennie and Mary helped to support the family by sewing dolls’ dresses with their mother.
As a teenager, Jennie distinguished herself, graduating from Barringer high school in 1937 as a member of the Academic Honor Society, Vice-President of the Italian Honor Society, and a member of the French Honor Society. Additionally, Jennie was on the board for the yearbook committee, Science Club, Mixed Chorus, Girls’ Leaders Club, Gym Captain and multiple dance committees.
Jennie filled her home with love and energy as she raised 5 boys and 2 girls with the strength of a titan yet the gentleness of an angel. Ever faithful, Jennie taught her children to trust in God and allow Him to take the reins and guide them through the pathways of life. She lived what she preached and her every action set the standards of family values to which her children adhere and have passed to their own.
Humble by nature, Jennie never asked for much or looked for praise. She not only enjoyed the simple things in life, she embraced them, showering others with appreciation for even the tiniest of gestures.
A spirited woman, Jennie possessed a fire that shone like a beacon through her eyes and emanated from her very essence. She always jumped at the chance to try something new - roller coasters (the higher the better) even at age 95 and para sailing at 88. Jennie loved adventure, dancing and parties filled with family and friends. Her laughter was infectious and could light up a room.
Those very same eyes, however, could tell you stories without ever uttering a word. Stories of the pains she suffered at the loss of her husband, daughter and son. Stories of faith and friendship and never-ending patience. Eyes filled with kindness and immeasurable love that could melt away any fears one may have.
Family was the true essence of her heart and emanated from every fiber of her existence. Jennie was dedicated to her family and filled the hearts of all who knew her with sunshine and smiles. She is survived by 4 sons and daughters-in-law, Charles J. (Carole), Anthony (Nancy), Brian (Shannon), Marty (Kathy), and her daughter, Yvonne. She was the loving grandmother to 20 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and 2 great, great grandchildren.
Jennie Lorenzo was an enigma in that she possessed the strength of an army, yet the gentleness of a butterfly, the fierceness of a lion, yet the kindness of an angel, the energy of a bolt of lightning yet the patience of a saint. She was and will forever be the light of our lives, an indomitable spirit that perpetuated unconditional love.
One only need to experience the radiance of her smile once to truly understand the legacy that is Jennie Lorenzo!
The family has designated the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Disease as their preferred charity for anyone wishing to make a donation.
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