Esther Certisimo

The world lost a bright light on Monday, March 24, 2025, with the passing of Esther Certisimo, 94, who lived every moment on her own terms.

Spunky, spirited, and larger than life, Esther’s quick wit and warm heart left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Her greatest joy was her family — gathering them around her table for homemade meals, laughter, wisdom, and unconditional love. She was the heart of every holiday and the rock everyone could count on.

Guided by a deep faith in God, Esther lived with grace, kindness, and generosity. She was always ready to help others and share life’s blessings.

Esther was born in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Alex and Milly (Gemignani) Bernacchi and lived most of her life in Secaucus, NJ, before moving to Pennsylvania four and a half years ago. She filled her years with stories, adventures, and love — dancing when others sat still, and speaking her mind with courage and honesty. She lived with purpose, loved without limits, and did it her way.

She was the loving wife of the late Alfred Certisimo (Certo); cherished mother of Kim Mewengkang and her husband Richard, and the late Sandra Mullins; devoted grandmother of Saxon Sorrentino (Yalili), the late Cody Mullins, Natasha McVey (Mike), and Anthony Passante (Carly); proud great-grandmother of Lauren, Lindsey, Max, Lexi, MJ and Lyla. She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

A visitation for Esther will be held on Thursday, March 27th, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM with her Main Prayer Service at 7PM at Mack Memorial Home, 1245 Paterson Plank Road, Secaucus, NJ. A prayer service will take place on Friday, March 28th, at 10:00 AM at the same location, followed by her burial at Holy Cross Cemetery, 340 Ridge Road, North Arlington, NJ 07031.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Teen Challenge, USA.