Maria Ferrante Obituary

Maria Theresa Ferrante, 85, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, New Jersey, after a brief but difficult illness. She was born in Jersey City and raised in Hoboken by her beloved parents Frank and Theresa Zotto. In 1970, she moved to Summit, where she lived until her passing.

Maria graduated from Demarest High School in Hoboken in 1957, where she met her future husband, Desmond Ferrante. She began her professional career at Bell Labs, where she worked in Accounting and steadily rose through the ranks over a successful ten-year tenure.

In the late 1960s, Maria transitioned to the role of a mother and homemaker. Maria and Desmond built a loving home together with their two cherished children, Sandra and Michael. Maria's unwavering support and guidance were the cornerstones upon which her family built their lives. Desmond passed away in 1997.

When she returned to the workforce, she brought her organizational talents and compassionate nature to the role of Office Manager, first for Robinwood Kitchens in Berkeley Heights, then for Dr. David Campeas. She became not just a valued employee, but a trusted friend and confidant of Dr. Campeas, even after she retired in 2014.

Maria had a special gift for conversation, whether chatting with strangers she met around town, or connecting with close friends and family. Her phone calls were truly treasured. She was always ready with thoughtful guidance, often delivered with warmth, empathy, and witty humor. Maria also enjoyed socializing with friends at the New Providence Senior Center, where she took Italian and art classes. She had a natural talent for crafting. She took ceramics classes and created many beautiful household items. She was also a skilled and prolific knitter, making blankets and baby sets for family and friends. Her love of making things extended to the kitchen; her carrot cake was especially famous. Beyond her creative pursuits, Maria enjoyed traveling and visiting many parts of the world.

She was predeceased by her husband Desmond Ferrante, brother William Zotto, her parents Frank and Theresa Zotto, and companion Paul Mulvee. She is survived by her children Sandra Ferrante Timmermann (Matthew) and Michael Ferrante (Christine); her grandchildren Julia, Daniel, Elena, and Thomas; her brother Joseph; her dear friend Thomas Early; as well as nieces, nephews, in-laws, extended family, and many friends, all of whom will miss her dearly.

Contributions in Maria's memory may be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center.