Darlene Marie (Russo) Mattia, 79, of Naples, Florida went home to the Lord on Wednesday, September 14, 2022. She was born to Gennaro and Dorothy Russo on April 26,1943 in Newark, New Jersey, where she grew up with her sister Barbara, surrounded by extended family. Darlene graduated from Red Bank Catholic High School and later Trenton State University. She also earned her Masters Degree in Education from Montclair State University.
Darlene was a proud educator in the Bloomfield Public School System for over 30 years. She taught various elementary grades and later became the principal of Watsessing School in Bloomfield, NJ. She was loved by her students and staff alike.
Darlene lived in Little Falls, New Jersey for over 30 years, where she was involved in various town activities. After retiring, Darlene moved to Naples, Florida in 2004 where she and her husband Michael enjoyed the beach, spending time with family, cruising and traveling often.
Darlene is predeceased by her loving husband of 49 years, Michael Joseph Mattia. She is survived by her daughter Michelle (Mattia) Marks, son in law Robert Marks, grandsons Jake Patrick Marks and Cooper Joseph Marks, sister Barbara Cuccinello, nephews and nieces Robert Cuccinello and his wife Nicole (Ward) Cuccinello, David Cuccinello and his wife Rainy Kumar, and great nephews and niece Carmine Cuccinello, Anthony Cuccinello, Miles Cuccinello and Zoe Cuccinello.
A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, September 22 at 1:00 pm at St. Agnes Church, 775 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples, Florida 34120.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Darlene’s name to Avow Hospice at www.avowcares.org
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hodgesfhatnaplesmg.com for the Mattia family.
