Born on the 4th of July, the sweetest 91-year old firecracker in the world has peacefully entered the heavens to be with her Lord on February 3, 2020. Margherita Maria (nee Bracuto) DeGregorio, of Middletown, will be sorely missed. Born and raised in Westfield, NJ her plans of becoming a nun halted when she met …
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Born on the 4th of July, the sweetest 91-year old firecracker in the world has peacefully entered the heavens to be with her Lord on February 3, 2020. Margherita Maria (nee Bracuto) DeGregorio, of Middletown, will be sorely missed. Born and raised in Westfield, NJ her plans of becoming a nun halted when she met her future husband, Anthony. For the next 60 years, Margherita raised her family in Morristown, Middletown and Tinton Falls.
The birth and death of this selfless woman is not nearly as relevant as how she lived her life: raising her eight children, bonding with her grandchildren and spending countless hours at religious vocations. She was a devoted wife, a protective mother, a loving “Grandma”, a nurturing sister and a trusted friend. Margherita spent years volunteering at various organizations at St. Ann’s Parish in Keansburg, as well as, St. Leo The Great in Lincroft. Margherita volunteered for over 25 years at Arnold Walter Nursing home and more recently at the Tinton Falls Public Library. Being involved in the pro-life movement, the Cursillo group and the Eucharistic ministry were extremely important to Margherita.
She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of over 60 years, Anthony Otto DeGregorio.
Surviving are her loving children Terry and Mickey Hyland, Frank DeGregorio, Maria and Kurt Lawn, Anthony DeGregorio Jr., Regina Ruther, Roseann DeGregorio, Christine Hoover, Angela and Kevin White, 17 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.
She was also predeceased by her parents Cesare and Maria (nee Navarro) Bracuto and 9 siblings.
Family will receive friends and relatives on Thursday, February 6th from 2–4 PM and 7–9 PM at Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 S. Holmdel Road, Holmdel, NJ. A celebration of life mass will be held on Friday, February 7th at 10:15 AM St. Leo the Great Church, 50 Hurleys Lane, Lincroft, NJ.
Near to Margherita’s heart are the Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers in Maryknoll, NY. Donations are being accepting in memory of Margherita DeGregorio, https://maryknollsociety.org/ or mail to PO Box 302, Maryknoll, NY 10545-0302. To leave a message of condolence please visit Margherita’s page at www.holmdelfuneralhome.com.
Maryse MM
left a message on August 10, 2020:
My deepest condolences to the family & friends of Margherita. I just heard of her passing as I moved out of state. She was truly a kind soul who sat behind me at daily mass at St Leo The Great. She always had nothing but kind words to say and always wore a smile. I know she will be missed by many, may she Rest In Peace.
Stanley Cieslik
left a message on February 19, 2020:
So very sorry for the loss of your mom.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Marion Guess
left a message on February 11, 2020:
There is never a good time to say goodbye to a parent, especially one that was loved and respected by her family as Mrs DeGregorio. She raised such an amazing family and she will be missed by all those whose lives she touched. So sorry Christine for this loss but know she will always be with you watching over you with your Dad next to her.
Mary & Bob Luby
left a message on February 9, 2020:
Dear Marguerite, a light of the world, you were a delight to us both. A beacon of good, and of joy, a person of truth and kindness, of action and prayer, a hostess extraordinaire. De Colores, Mary and Bob Luby
Nereida Kringdon
left a message on February 7, 2020:
My deepest sympathy to the family during this difficult time. I met your Mom through Cursillo what a strong faithful lady.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Elisabeth Patterson
left a message on February 7, 2020:
Margherita was a wonderful woman. I knew her from St. Leo's, and loved and admired her.
Her memory is a blessing.
Carl & Deborah Alfano
left a message on February 7, 2020:
So sorry for your loss, we knew Margherita through your dad, Tony. SHe was a gentle woman and will be missed
Lisa Willows
left a message on February 6, 2020:
Maria Lawn and family: My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
Dot Rollo
left a message on February 6, 2020:
A candle was lit by Dot Rollo on 2020/02/06
Mary Ann Dowd
left a message on February 6, 2020:
Beloved Cursillistas,
Once again we experience our beloved sister-in-Christ and true matriarch of our movement gone to meet her Lord in the final encounter. How many must have been waiting for Margherita with open arms, as Our Lord pronounced those words we all long to hear someday: “Welcome good and faithful servant into the joys of the Kingdom I have prepared for you.”
Margherita was one of the first people I met when I lived my Cursillo over 25 years ago. She was always so ALIVE in the Lord and full of Christian joy. I would look for her at different events and she never disappointed. She knew the Way, went the Way, and showed the Way. Not by preaching but by the simple witness of her life in Christ. Her joy increased my joy. Her love of Our Lord encouraged me to love HIM more. Her faithful joyful service encouraged me to be more faithful in my walk with Jesus.
We will sorely miss you Margarita until we meet again in our fifth day. Say Hi to Fr. Jay and all the other faithful Cursillistas home at last!
Vivian and Edward Rath and Family
left a message on February 6, 2020:
Dear Tony and Family,
Our deepest sympathies. We didn't know her, but she must have been a wonderful and caring person. We know that she will be sorely missed on earth, but that heaven is rejoicing! God bless!
Vivian and Ed Rath and Family
Liz & Greg
left a message on February 6, 2020:
So very sorry for the loss of your beautiful mom. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers. She was a wonderful woman. She has touched so many lives, including mine and Greg’s. Always there when you needed someone to talk to or lend a shoulder to lean on. We loved helping her set up her Christmas Village every year. The smile on her face when it was finished filled our hearts. I will miss seeing her at daily morning Mass and Mass on Sunday. She always had a smile on her face. God Bless you Margherita. You will always have a special place in our hearts
Love,
Liz and Greg
Maria and Karel Belgium
left a message on February 6, 2020:
Our deepest condolences to the family of Mrs DeGregorio, especially to Maria and Kurt, dear friends who we met on a beautiful Ireland tour.
Maria and Karel, Belgium
Bill Hansen
left a message on February 6, 2020:
My condolences to the entire family on the passing of Margherita (Mom) DeGregorio.
william roberts
left a message on February 5, 2020:
Dear Regina & Christina:
MY deepest sympathies are sent to you today on the passing of your mother, and my family joins me in sending condolences to your family.
May the peace and beauty of her life remain in your hearts forever.
Bill Roberts
TFS
Bob Larson
left a message on February 5, 2020:
Mike and I were Margherita and Tony's next door neighbors for many years on Hope Road, and they were not just great neighbors but wonderful people who we loved. We were privileged to know them. Margherita's deep faith and that energy she brought to life are surely a lasting inspiration for all she touched. Our sincere condolences to the family.
Father Ken Lasch
left a message on February 5, 2020:
I became acquainted with your mom through my sister, Carol Adamsky during their association in Morristown. Your mom and I exchanged cards and greetings during the holidays and other special occasions. I am saddened by her death and would be present for the celebration of her wonderful life if at all possible. Please accept my condolences.
Robert & Patricia Burke
left a message on February 5, 2020:
We know this giving, loving, spiritual, compassionate women n Tony for many years! Actually since she n Tony walked their Cursillo! We met for years at their home in Tinton Falls then after Tony passed and she decided to downsize she welcomed the Ultreya group to her home. With such warmth and guidance. I will cherish celebrating her birthday with our dear
Friend Fran Romeo last summer!
Bob n I will always remember her lovingly.
Vanessa Troccoli
left a message on February 5, 2020:
A candle was lit by Vanessa Troccoli on 2020/02/05
Laura Houston
left a message on February 4, 2020:
Margarita was a neighbor of my grandmother at Shady Oaks, she was the loveliest, friendliest woman. She always wore a smile and asked about my family. She will be greatly missed. She was one of a kind.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Sandra Stewart
left a message on February 4, 2020:
I knew your mom to be very frugal. One of my fondest memories is one day after having dinner at my home she commented how she really liked my bathroom tissue. At first I couldn't believe what she was saying but she ended the thought with her bathroom tissue wasn't as soft as mine. She wanted to know the brand and of course the price. I knew she would never go for the price so I lied and cut the price in half. She couldn't believe how cheap it was so i lied again and said it's always that price at Costco. From that day on I always supplied her with the comfortable but cheap bathroom tissue. But of course she insisted on reimbursing me. I had difficulty remembering the price. You know what they say when you lie. It's always difficult to remember what you said. But fortunately she never caught on. Still brings a smile to my face.
Peter cabrera
left a message on February 4, 2020:
Mom you were always a very special person to me I will never forget how loving and giving you always were. God has gained more than an Angel but a true believer since birth. Rest In Peace Mrs. De in my heart forever
Peter
Kimberly Williams
left a message on February 4, 2020:
It's rare to find someone anymore as kind hearted and genuine as Margherita. She had such a loving way about her, always putting the focus on others and made you feel like your troubles really mattered to her. Funny thing is, I really believe they did. It was just her way. Her beautiful, funny, caring, compassionate, loving way. A beautiful soul who will be sorely missed. My deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Robert Lauricella
left a message on February 4, 2020:
I shared in the same ultreya for many years with Margareta . She and I had a special bond. I felt like she was my adopted grandmother.
Will miss her may she Rest In Peace.
A big hug to Tony for me.
Peggy Rizzolo
left a message on February 4, 2020:
Marguerite and I sat together at the 10am Mass most Sundays at St. Leo the Great. I so admired her faith and devotion. I hope that if I ever reach the age of 91 that I could be as “young at heart and mind” as she was. I will miss her.
Patricia Cappuccio
left a message on February 4, 2020:
Our condolences to the family , may she Rest In Peace.
Pattie& Ben Cappuccio
Sandra Strewart
left a message on February 4, 2020:
She was so proud of you all and as she expected you were always there to support her. The best tribute you could give to her would be to be forgiving and supportive to each other. Stay close. She cherished you all. FAMILY FAMILY FAMILY the secrete to a happy life.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Maryse MM
left a message on August 10, 2020:
My deepest condolences to the family & friends of Margherita. I just heard of her passing as I moved out of state. She was truly a kind soul who sat behind me at daily mass at St Leo The Great. She always had nothing but kind words to say and always wore a smile. I know she will be missed by many, may she Rest In Peace.
Stanley Cieslik
left a message on February 19, 2020:
So very sorry for the loss of your mom.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Marion Guess
left a message on February 11, 2020:
There is never a good time to say goodbye to a parent, especially one that was loved and respected by her family as Mrs DeGregorio. She raised such an amazing family and she will be missed by all those whose lives she touched. So sorry Christine for this loss but know she will always be with you watching over you with your Dad next to her.
Mary & Bob Luby
left a message on February 9, 2020:
Dear Marguerite, a light of the world, you were a delight to us both. A beacon of good, and of joy, a person of truth and kindness, of action and prayer, a hostess extraordinaire. De Colores, Mary and Bob Luby
Nereida Kringdon
left a message on February 7, 2020:
My deepest sympathy to the family during this difficult time. I met your Mom through Cursillo what a strong faithful lady.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Elisabeth Patterson
left a message on February 7, 2020:
Margherita was a wonderful woman. I knew her from St. Leo's, and loved and admired her.
Her memory is a blessing.
Carl & Deborah Alfano
left a message on February 7, 2020:
So sorry for your loss, we knew Margherita through your dad, Tony. SHe was a gentle woman and will be missed
Lisa Willows
left a message on February 6, 2020:
Maria Lawn and family: My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
Dot Rollo
left a message on February 6, 2020:
A candle was lit by Dot Rollo on 2020/02/06
Mary Ann Dowd
left a message on February 6, 2020:
Beloved Cursillistas,
Once again we experience our beloved sister-in-Christ and true matriarch of our movement gone to meet her Lord in the final encounter. How many must have been waiting for Margherita with open arms, as Our Lord pronounced those words we all long to hear someday: “Welcome good and faithful servant into the joys of the Kingdom I have prepared for you.”
Margherita was one of the first people I met when I lived my Cursillo over 25 years ago. She was always so ALIVE in the Lord and full of Christian joy. I would look for her at different events and she never disappointed. She knew the Way, went the Way, and showed the Way. Not by preaching but by the simple witness of her life in Christ. Her joy increased my joy. Her love of Our Lord encouraged me to love HIM more. Her faithful joyful service encouraged me to be more faithful in my walk with Jesus.
We will sorely miss you Margarita until we meet again in our fifth day. Say Hi to Fr. Jay and all the other faithful Cursillistas home at last!
Vivian and Edward Rath and Family
left a message on February 6, 2020:
Dear Tony and Family,
Our deepest sympathies. We didn't know her, but she must have been a wonderful and caring person. We know that she will be sorely missed on earth, but that heaven is rejoicing! God bless!
Vivian and Ed Rath and Family
Liz & Greg
left a message on February 6, 2020:
So very sorry for the loss of your beautiful mom. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers. She was a wonderful woman. She has touched so many lives, including mine and Greg’s. Always there when you needed someone to talk to or lend a shoulder to lean on. We loved helping her set up her Christmas Village every year. The smile on her face when it was finished filled our hearts. I will miss seeing her at daily morning Mass and Mass on Sunday. She always had a smile on her face. God Bless you Margherita. You will always have a special place in our hearts
Love,
Liz and Greg
Maria and Karel Belgium
left a message on February 6, 2020:
Our deepest condolences to the family of Mrs DeGregorio, especially to Maria and Kurt, dear friends who we met on a beautiful Ireland tour.
Maria and Karel, Belgium
Bill Hansen
left a message on February 6, 2020:
My condolences to the entire family on the passing of Margherita (Mom) DeGregorio.
william roberts
left a message on February 5, 2020:
Dear Regina & Christina:
MY deepest sympathies are sent to you today on the passing of your mother, and my family joins me in sending condolences to your family.
May the peace and beauty of her life remain in your hearts forever.
Bill Roberts
TFS
Bob Larson
left a message on February 5, 2020:
Mike and I were Margherita and Tony's next door neighbors for many years on Hope Road, and they were not just great neighbors but wonderful people who we loved. We were privileged to know them. Margherita's deep faith and that energy she brought to life are surely a lasting inspiration for all she touched. Our sincere condolences to the family.
Father Ken Lasch
left a message on February 5, 2020:
I became acquainted with your mom through my sister, Carol Adamsky during their association in Morristown. Your mom and I exchanged cards and greetings during the holidays and other special occasions. I am saddened by her death and would be present for the celebration of her wonderful life if at all possible. Please accept my condolences.
Robert & Patricia Burke
left a message on February 5, 2020:
We know this giving, loving, spiritual, compassionate women n Tony for many years! Actually since she n Tony walked their Cursillo! We met for years at their home in Tinton Falls then after Tony passed and she decided to downsize she welcomed the Ultreya group to her home. With such warmth and guidance. I will cherish celebrating her birthday with our dear
Friend Fran Romeo last summer!
Bob n I will always remember her lovingly.
Vanessa Troccoli
left a message on February 5, 2020:
A candle was lit by Vanessa Troccoli on 2020/02/05
Laura Houston
left a message on February 4, 2020:
Margarita was a neighbor of my grandmother at Shady Oaks, she was the loveliest, friendliest woman. She always wore a smile and asked about my family. She will be greatly missed. She was one of a kind.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Sandra Stewart
left a message on February 4, 2020:
I knew your mom to be very frugal. One of my fondest memories is one day after having dinner at my home she commented how she really liked my bathroom tissue. At first I couldn't believe what she was saying but she ended the thought with her bathroom tissue wasn't as soft as mine. She wanted to know the brand and of course the price. I knew she would never go for the price so I lied and cut the price in half. She couldn't believe how cheap it was so i lied again and said it's always that price at Costco. From that day on I always supplied her with the comfortable but cheap bathroom tissue. But of course she insisted on reimbursing me. I had difficulty remembering the price. You know what they say when you lie. It's always difficult to remember what you said. But fortunately she never caught on. Still brings a smile to my face.
Peter cabrera
left a message on February 4, 2020:
Mom you were always a very special person to me I will never forget how loving and giving you always were. God has gained more than an Angel but a true believer since birth. Rest In Peace Mrs. De in my heart forever
Peter
Kimberly Williams
left a message on February 4, 2020:
It's rare to find someone anymore as kind hearted and genuine as Margherita. She had such a loving way about her, always putting the focus on others and made you feel like your troubles really mattered to her. Funny thing is, I really believe they did. It was just her way. Her beautiful, funny, caring, compassionate, loving way. A beautiful soul who will be sorely missed. My deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Robert Lauricella
left a message on February 4, 2020:
I shared in the same ultreya for many years with Margareta . She and I had a special bond. I felt like she was my adopted grandmother.
Will miss her may she Rest In Peace.
A big hug to Tony for me.
Peggy Rizzolo
left a message on February 4, 2020:
Marguerite and I sat together at the 10am Mass most Sundays at St. Leo the Great. I so admired her faith and devotion. I hope that if I ever reach the age of 91 that I could be as “young at heart and mind” as she was. I will miss her.
Patricia Cappuccio
left a message on February 4, 2020:
Our condolences to the family , may she Rest In Peace.
Pattie& Ben Cappuccio
Sandra Strewart
left a message on February 4, 2020:
She was so proud of you all and as she expected you were always there to support her. The best tribute you could give to her would be to be forgiving and supportive to each other. Stay close. She cherished you all. FAMILY FAMILY FAMILY the secrete to a happy life.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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