Obituary of Gloria M. Colella

Gloria Marie Colella, a longtime Madison resident, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, February 8, 2024 with her family by her side. She was 95.

Gloria is survived by three sons, Alfonso “Al” Troianello, Anthony J. Damiano III & David A. Damiano; three daughters, Antoinette “Toni” Troianello, Francine R. Damiano & Angelina Knicely; several cherished grandchildren & great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews, and many extended family members.

She was predeceased by her beloved first husband who died at a young age, Ralph J. Troianello; and her second husband, Anthony J.  Damiano, Jr.; two sons, Ralph F.  Damiano & Steven L. Damiano; and two brothers Anthony “Sonny” Colella, Jr. & Ronald “Ronnie” Colella.

Gloria was born in Summit on December 30, 1928 to the late Anthony and Mildred Colella. She was raised in Summit with her brothers and moved to Madison in her Senior year in high school because her father Anthony, a mason by trade, was building a new home for the family on Niles Avenue. Gloria made many new friends and graduated from Madison High School.

Gloria had a long career at the Prudential Insurance Company in Newark as a transcriber and dictationist, as well as at the Automatic Switch Company in Florham Park.

Gloria’s family and Catholic faith were paramount in her life. Up until her final days she was still making sure her family was well cared for and praying for everyone. She loved to cook for her family and friends, and her Italian specialties were incredible. Gloria was an active parishioner of St. Vincent Martyr Church.

Gloria gave with her entire heart and always put everyone before herself, never looking for anything in return. She also frequently gave what she could to worthy charities and those in need.

Gloria was a wonderful mother and grandmother, and a devoted friend. She loved to collect ceramic animal and bird figurines, and especially loved Cardinals. Gloria enjoyed learning about ancient history and was very knowledgeable about the ancient Egyptians and Native Americans. 

Gloria will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her and remembered forever by her loving family.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a graveside service for Gloria on Saturday, February 10, 2024 held at 11:00 a.m. at St. Vincent’s Cemetery, on the corner of Noe Avenue & Shunpike Road, in Madison.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gloria’s memory may be made to the American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692