Obituary of Mary Patricia DeRiggi

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Patricia "Pat" DeRiggi, our most beloved wife, mother, grandmother and dedicated Catholic educator. She died peacefully on July 13, 2025 at the age of 76. Pat was a beacon of love and wisdom, whose unwavering commitment to her family and students shaped the lives of many.

Pat is survived by her beloved husband, Raymond J. DeRiggi, Jr.; two sons, Mark DeRiggi and his wife Lauren & Brian DeRiggi; four cherished grandchildren, Ava DeRiggi, Liliana DeRiggi, James DeRiggi and Shae DeRiggi, who were the light of her life; two cousins, Victor Manning and Jack Manning; and several extended family member and dear friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts. In addition to her parents, Pat was predeceased by her dear son, Jonathan DeRiggi in 2014.

Pat was born on May 31, 1949 in New York City to the late Fred and Mary Patricia Manning. As a young woman she earned her bachelor’s degree from Centenary University, majoring in interior design. After college her first job was with Hahne & Co in Newark as a buyer for their department stores.

Pat and Ray were married in 1972 and settled in Madison where they raised their three sons, later moving to New Vernon. Pat had an active role in her sons’ education and sports, and was also the president of the Seton Hall Prep Mother’s Club. She was a devoted member of the New Vernon community, volunteering a great deal of her time to the New Vernon Library, the New Vernon Ladies Auxiliary and the New Vernon Auction, which was held every year to fundraise for the town’s emergency services.

Pat had a keen eye for interior design and she was talented at creating drapes and window treatments. She loved crocheting and needlepoint as well.  

From a young age, Pat exhibited a passion for learning and teaching, which ultimately led her to pursue a career in Catholic education. She transitioned her career and became the director of religious education at St. Vincent Martyr School, leading over 500 children. Over the course of her career, Pat inspired and instilled faith in countless St. Vincent Martyr students with her enthusiasm for knowledge and her belief in their potential. She had a unique ability to connect with each child, fostering a nurturing environment where they felt encouraged to develop and reinforce their Catholic faith. Pat treasured the support she had from the combination of over 50 teachers and volunteer staff at St. Vincent’s School. Before Pat’s illness, she was working towards earning her master’s degree in theology.

Pat's dedication extended beyond the classroom; she was a mentor to many, sharing her insights and experiences with generosity and grace. Her legacy as a Catholic educator will be felt for generations to come at St. Vincent’s, as she instilled a love of learning about our faith and religion in all those fortunate enough to cross her path.

As a mother and grandmother, Pat was the heart of her family. She cherished every moment spent with her children and grandchildren, creating a home filled with laughter, warmth, and unconditional love. Her famous family gatherings, complete with her delicious home-cooked meals and stories that captivated young and old alike, will be fondly remembered by all.

In honoring Pat's life, we invite all who knew her to celebrate her legacy by continuing to spread kindness and knowledge, just as she did. Pat will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend the visitation for Pat to be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Madison Memorial Home, 159 Main Street, Madison.

Funeral services will begin at the funeral home at 9:00 a.m. on July 18, 2025 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial which will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. at St. Vincent Martyr Church, 26 Green Village Road, Madison. Those who wish to attend the mass virtually may do so by visiting www.svmnj.org/livestream-mass

Interment will follow at St. Vincent’s Cemetery, Madison.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be made in Pat's memory to the Madison Volunteer Ambulance Corps, 29 Prospect St, Madison, NJ 07940.