Ombra DeMaio

Ombra Rose DeMaio, 92, of Whiting, NJ, peacefully passed away at home on Thursday, November 28, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born in the charming town of Meduna, Italy, in 1932, Ombra embraced a life of adventure and resilience. At just 16 years old, she courageously journeyed to the United States in 1948, settling in South Amboy, where she built a life rich with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

For over two decades, Ombra was a dedicated employee of the Revlon Company in Edison, NJ, retiring in 2004. Her true passions, however, were found beyond the workplace. A master in the kitchen, she found joy in cooking and baking for her family, weaving her Italian heritage into every meal. Her love for family knew no bounds, and she delighted in bringing them together around the dinner table. Ombra also cherished her trips to Atlantic City, where she found excitement and simple pleasures.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Anthony DeMaio, who passed in 1984, as well as her brothers Ennio, Edward, and Sereno Maraldo. Their memories live on in the hearts of those who loved them.

Ombra’s legacy shines brightly in her surviving family: her devoted sister, Gina Rigutto, and her husband Giancarlo; her three loving children, Laura Smith and her husband Robert, Gina Ortepio and her husband Gerard, and Anthony DeMaio and his fiancée Cindy Reich. She was the proud grandmother of Candice Ray (Aaron), April Simmons (Daron), Shane Smith, Krystina Lonogobardi (Nicholas), Anthony (AJ) DeMaio, Michael Ortepio, and Gianna DeMaio. Ombra also adored her great-grandchildren, Isabella, Christian, Ezio, Ronin, Marcelo, Audrey, and Lillian, who brought endless joy to her life.

Family and friends are invited to honor Ombra’s life during visitation on Tuesday, December 3, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home, 115 Lacey Rd, Whiting, NJ 08759. A service celebrating her memory will be held at 6:30 PM. Interment will follow on Wednesday, December 4, at 1:30 PM at St. Joseph Cemetery, 360 Broadway, Keyport, NJ 07735.

Ombra’s warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for her family will be forever missed but never forgotten. Her life was a testament to the power of family, faith, and enduring love.