George J. Cucuzzella, 75 of Oceanport, passed away on Friday, June 20th surrounded by his loving family. George was born and raised in the Ironbound section of Newark, New Jersey, where he built not only his life, but his legacy. George was the proud owner and operator of Cucuzzella’s Bakery; a cornerstone of the neighborhood …
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George J. Cucuzzella, 75 of Oceanport, passed away on Friday, June 20th surrounded by his loving family.
George was born and raised in the Ironbound section of Newark, New Jersey, where he built not only his life, but his legacy. George was the proud owner and operator of Cucuzzella’s Bakery; a cornerstone of the neighborhood that served restaurants, pizzerias, and generations of individuals. George simultaneously spent many summers running the well-known Long Branch restaurant “Georgie Porgies” and other amusements on the boardwalk.
George was a Veteran of the United States Air Force where he took great pride in serving his country.
George’s many passions included nice dinners with his friends and family, collecting sports memorabilia, taking vacations, enjoying the Monmouth Park Racetrack, and rooting on the LA Dodgers. Over the years, George formed countless meaningful friendships where he left a lasting impression on all that knew him.
Above all, George loved his family. He worked tirelessly to provide for them and his love for them was clear in every action and word he said. His life was a testament of dedication, resilience, honor, and generosity.
We will all miss George’s strength, his wisdom, his humor, and his conversations. But most importantly, we will all miss his presence, his laugh, and the comfort he would provide those around him by simply being there.
George is predeceased by his mother Rose Piegari and his father Anthony Cucuzzella. Surviving is his loving and devoted wife of 38 years Diane B Cucuzzella, their son George R. Cucuzzella, daughter Ashley Rose and son-in-law Eric Testa, two grandchildren, Nicholas George and Gia Rose; his brother and his wife, Anthony and Mel Cucuzzella, and their children, Rebecca, Noah and Josh; his mother-in-law, Quinta Maglione, in-laws Barbara and Bill Roche, Nancy Bale, and Sandy and Tom Villane. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday June 24th at 10:30 am, at St. Michael’s RC Church, 800 Ocean Avenue, Long Branch. Interment will follow at Woodbine Cemetery, Oceanport.
Frank and Susan Urmey
left a message on June 24, 2025:
Deepest condolences to the family on the loss of George. We have been neighbors for over 30 years. He was always so cheerful and sweet. He generously surprised us with bread from his bakery. when he retired he said he exercised on the boardwalk every morning and offered to take my husband. His medical issues were such a challenge for he and his family but they wee resilient beyond words. Prayers to all.
Anthony Amoscato
left a message on June 23, 2025:
Rest in peace cuz. Heaven will be a better place with Cucuzzella bread! Your cousin, Anthony Amoscato
Anthony Amoscato
left a message on June 23, 2025:
So sad to hear of the passing of cousin Georgie. I have great memories of our family celebrating holidays together in my grandparents house on Warwick Street, as well as hanging out at the bakery . I’l never forget his warm smile, quick wit, and dedication to family. Each time I would visit the bakery on my trips home from California, he would greet me with open arms and fill bags of hot bread for me to take back. He is one of the last of the “old guard” to leave us and will be greatly missed. Rest in peace cuz; Scotty is waiting for you to take you on a ride. Much love, your cousin Anthony Amoscato
Calello Family
left a message on June 23, 2025:
The Cucuzella Bakery was such a staple of the ironbound community. My family has such fond memories of seeing George baking bread, and the aroma filling the neighborhood. You don’t see establishments that took such pride in their work, created a family atmosphere and we always look forward for that delicious bread and Saint Joseph pastry that we shared as a family on our table every day. George was not only an entrepreneur, but he was a caring friend to the community always looking out for his fellow neighbors and interacting in our daily lives.
Thank you, George. May you rest in peace
Diane Lubischer
left a message on June 23, 2025:
Our sincere condolences and prayers to the Cucuzzella family. May George rest in eternal peace. Diane and Steve Lubischer
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Assaggini di Roma
left a message on June 22, 2025:
In memory of George J. Cucuzzella, Assaggini di Roma lit a candle
Rosa
left a message on June 22, 2025:
So very sorry for your loss. May comfort the entire family in his loving arms. 💔🙏🏼
Millie Estrella
left a message on June 22, 2025:
Rest in Peace George. Prayers and condolences to your family!
Anthony Ferrara
left a message on June 22, 2025:
In memory of George J. Cucuzzella, Anthony Ferrara lit a candle
Richie Stanchak
left a message on June 22, 2025:
I’ve had the extreme pleasure of your friendship since our days in high school. We’ve always remained good friends and I never forget the good times on our seashore excursions. After I moved to Florida I always made sure when I made my returns to the old neighborhood in Newark that I visited you at the bakery. You will be missed but never forgotten.
Annamarie Menza
left a message on June 22, 2025:
In memory of George J. Cucuzzella, Annamarie Menza lit a candle
Kevin Reghitto
left a message on June 22, 2025:
My deepest condolences, George was a great man I loved working with him on making bread with him. I remember him asking me if I would be willing to help him with the bread dough. I loved it and every time i would go to my backyard I would smell that nice fresh Italian bread. He was such a sweet guy, I will miss you George, Thank You
Susan Balina
left a message on June 22, 2025:
Dear Diane and family, I’m so very sorry for your loss... I hope and pray all of your fondest memories bring you peace and comfort during these difficult days. My deepest sympathies, Susan Balina
JoEllen Popola
left a message on June 22, 2025:
My deepest sympathy, to the family, George and Anthony would deliver bread to
My deli in Harrison many years ago. wonderful man and a great personality so sorry for your loss
Thomas E Buccine Jr
left a message on June 22, 2025:
I would like to extend my most sincere condolences to the family. George will certainly be missed. May the Lord comfort all of you at this hard time.
Joseph and Joan Todaro
left a message on June 22, 2025:
We can not even begin to express how sorry we are for your loss. Georgie was a wonderful person and will truly be missed.
Anthony Costa
left a message on June 22, 2025:
George’s legacy of laughter, humor and dedication will remain with us all. Myself and all of Diane’s cousins always admired George’s pleasant, milder manner personality.
Fly with the Angels, George. Rest in Eternal Peace.
Anthony & Christine Costa
Scott Buccine
left a message on June 21, 2025:
My sincere condolences to George's family. I am very sorry for your loss. 😔
Melanie
left a message on June 21, 2025:
In memory of George J. Cucuzzella, Melanie lit a candle
Manny Aleixo
left a message on June 21, 2025:
Dear Georgie,
You were such an important part of my life growing up. You taught me lessons that no school ever could—lessons I now try to pass on to my own child.
I had the greatest childhood thanks to you—working at the bakery, sharing laughs, those unforgettable rides down the shore, and later, the fun times we had visiting the clubs as I got older.
But what I’ll remember most is the work ethic you instilled in me, and the passion you inspired in me to take chances and go after what I believed in. My success in life is a reflection of what you gave me.
You will always hold a special place in my heart. My deepest condolences to the entire Cucuzzella family. Georgie was a great man—a true legend—who will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Georgie. Until we meet again.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Betty & Patti Moore
left a message on June 21, 2025:
Rest in peace 🙏
George lobman
left a message on June 21, 2025:
I haven’t seen George in person for many decades, high school was so long ago! But we see pictures and see families and events all thru the years! George was one of the good guys I pray he has an eternal memory and blessed resting place.
The Nunes Family
left a message on June 21, 2025:
In memory of George J. Cucuzzella, The Nunes Family lit a candle
Catherine Moore
left a message on June 21, 2025:
My deepest condolences and prayers for you all. He was a very kind man and it was obvious of how much he is loved.
Conrad & Joan Pfeifer
left a message on June 21, 2025:
Very sorry for your loss. A long time friend and customer. Lived around corner from Bakery. Will miss George. Good guy.
And Lord,i Caswell
left a message on June 21, 2025:
My deepest condolences go out to the family of George. Georgie was my next-door neighbor my whole entire life. He was the dearest person. I know a great friend a great neighbor. My heart is broken. Rest in peace, my dear friend.🙏🏻❤️
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Frank and Susan Urmey
left a message on June 24, 2025:
Deepest condolences to the family on the loss of George. We have been neighbors for over 30 years. He was always so cheerful and sweet. He generously surprised us with bread from his bakery. when he retired he said he exercised on the boardwalk every morning and offered to take my husband. His medical issues were such a challenge for he and his family but they wee resilient beyond words. Prayers to all.
Anthony Amoscato
left a message on June 23, 2025:
Rest in peace cuz. Heaven will be a better place with Cucuzzella bread! Your cousin, Anthony Amoscato
Anthony Amoscato
left a message on June 23, 2025:
So sad to hear of the passing of cousin Georgie. I have great memories of our family celebrating holidays together in my grandparents house on Warwick Street, as well as hanging out at the bakery . I’l never forget his warm smile, quick wit, and dedication to family. Each time I would visit the bakery on my trips home from California, he would greet me with open arms and fill bags of hot bread for me to take back. He is one of the last of the “old guard” to leave us and will be greatly missed. Rest in peace cuz; Scotty is waiting for you to take you on a ride. Much love, your cousin Anthony Amoscato
Calello Family
left a message on June 23, 2025:
The Cucuzella Bakery was such a staple of the ironbound community. My family has such fond memories of seeing George baking bread, and the aroma filling the neighborhood. You don’t see establishments that took such pride in their work, created a family atmosphere and we always look forward for that delicious bread and Saint Joseph pastry that we shared as a family on our table every day. George was not only an entrepreneur, but he was a caring friend to the community always looking out for his fellow neighbors and interacting in our daily lives.
Thank you, George. May you rest in peace
Diane Lubischer
left a message on June 23, 2025:
Our sincere condolences and prayers to the Cucuzzella family. May George rest in eternal peace. Diane and Steve Lubischer
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Assaggini di Roma
left a message on June 22, 2025:
In memory of George J. Cucuzzella, Assaggini di Roma lit a candle
Rosa
left a message on June 22, 2025:
So very sorry for your loss. May comfort the entire family in his loving arms. 💔🙏🏼
Millie Estrella
left a message on June 22, 2025:
Rest in Peace George. Prayers and condolences to your family!
Anthony Ferrara
left a message on June 22, 2025:
In memory of George J. Cucuzzella, Anthony Ferrara lit a candle
Richie Stanchak
left a message on June 22, 2025:
I’ve had the extreme pleasure of your friendship since our days in high school. We’ve always remained good friends and I never forget the good times on our seashore excursions. After I moved to Florida I always made sure when I made my returns to the old neighborhood in Newark that I visited you at the bakery. You will be missed but never forgotten.
Annamarie Menza
left a message on June 22, 2025:
In memory of George J. Cucuzzella, Annamarie Menza lit a candle
Kevin Reghitto
left a message on June 22, 2025:
My deepest condolences, George was a great man I loved working with him on making bread with him. I remember him asking me if I would be willing to help him with the bread dough. I loved it and every time i would go to my backyard I would smell that nice fresh Italian bread. He was such a sweet guy, I will miss you George, Thank You
Susan Balina
left a message on June 22, 2025:
Dear Diane and family, I’m so very sorry for your loss... I hope and pray all of your fondest memories bring you peace and comfort during these difficult days. My deepest sympathies, Susan Balina
JoEllen Popola
left a message on June 22, 2025:
My deepest sympathy, to the family, George and Anthony would deliver bread to
My deli in Harrison many years ago. wonderful man and a great personality so sorry for your loss
Thomas E Buccine Jr
left a message on June 22, 2025:
I would like to extend my most sincere condolences to the family. George will certainly be missed. May the Lord comfort all of you at this hard time.
Joseph and Joan Todaro
left a message on June 22, 2025:
We can not even begin to express how sorry we are for your loss. Georgie was a wonderful person and will truly be missed.
Anthony Costa
left a message on June 22, 2025:
George’s legacy of laughter, humor and dedication will remain with us all. Myself and all of Diane’s cousins always admired George’s pleasant, milder manner personality.
Fly with the Angels, George. Rest in Eternal Peace.
Anthony & Christine Costa
Scott Buccine
left a message on June 21, 2025:
My sincere condolences to George's family. I am very sorry for your loss. 😔
Melanie
left a message on June 21, 2025:
In memory of George J. Cucuzzella, Melanie lit a candle
Manny Aleixo
left a message on June 21, 2025:
Dear Georgie,
You were such an important part of my life growing up. You taught me lessons that no school ever could—lessons I now try to pass on to my own child.
I had the greatest childhood thanks to you—working at the bakery, sharing laughs, those unforgettable rides down the shore, and later, the fun times we had visiting the clubs as I got older.
But what I’ll remember most is the work ethic you instilled in me, and the passion you inspired in me to take chances and go after what I believed in. My success in life is a reflection of what you gave me.
You will always hold a special place in my heart. My deepest condolences to the entire Cucuzzella family. Georgie was a great man—a true legend—who will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Georgie. Until we meet again.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Betty & Patti Moore
left a message on June 21, 2025:
Rest in peace 🙏
George lobman
left a message on June 21, 2025:
I haven’t seen George in person for many decades, high school was so long ago! But we see pictures and see families and events all thru the years! George was one of the good guys I pray he has an eternal memory and blessed resting place.
The Nunes Family
left a message on June 21, 2025:
In memory of George J. Cucuzzella, The Nunes Family lit a candle
Catherine Moore
left a message on June 21, 2025:
My deepest condolences and prayers for you all. He was a very kind man and it was obvious of how much he is loved.
Conrad & Joan Pfeifer
left a message on June 21, 2025:
Very sorry for your loss. A long time friend and customer. Lived around corner from Bakery. Will miss George. Good guy.
And Lord,i Caswell
left a message on June 21, 2025:
My deepest condolences go out to the family of George. Georgie was my next-door neighbor my whole entire life. He was the dearest person. I know a great friend a great neighbor. My heart is broken. Rest in peace, my dear friend.🙏🏻❤️
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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