Obituary of Louise Simonelli

Louise Simonelli, a longtime Madison resident, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026 at Morristown Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family. She was 87.

Louise is survived by her devoted son, Joseph Simonelli; three loving daughters, Joanne Gingerelli, Elisa Simonelli & Maria Simonelli and her husband Paul; one cherished granddaughter, Angelina Livak; two brothers, Anthony Cerciello and his wife Maddalena & Ralph Cerciello and his wife Deidre; one sister, Mary Ruggerio and her husband Vincent; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.

In addition to her parents, Louise was predeceased by her beloved husband, Frank Simonelli in 1992; and three sisters, Pasqualina La Rocca, Antoinette Molaro and Santina Monda.

Born August 25, 1938 in Somma Vesuviana, Italy to the late Giovanni and Giovanna Cerciello, as a young woman Louise became a gifted seamstress who learned the old-world craft from skilled artisans in Naples. Louise and her mother, who was born in the United States, emigrated to Madison in 1954 when Louise was 15, settling on North Street where many extended family members already lived. In the years that followed, Louise played a pivotal role in helping her siblings come to the United States and thrive.

Louise met her beloved husband Frank shortly after arriving in Madison. They married in 1957 and settled on North Street, where they raised four children in a home rooted in faith, love, and hard work.

A devoted member of St. Vincent Martyr Church since age 15, Louise carried a lifelong devotion to the Blessed Mother and lived her faith daily. She was modest and quiet, yet she spoke with substance and respect.

Louise was a woman of extraordinary beauty both inside and out.  She was a proud American and she always carried the heart of Italy with her throughout her life.

Louise’s life was truly devoted to her family. She was an incredible mother and especially proud of her granddaughter. A devoted wife who cared for everyone, she loved to cook and treasured time spent with family. Louise also cherished flowers and enjoyed long drives through the countryside, often sharing stories of Italy and her old hometown with those she loved.

Louise’s life was a blessing to those who knew her. She lived well and left behind a beautiful legacy—a family who loves her deeply and will miss her beyond measure. May her memory continue to inspire us, and may she rest in eternal peace.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation for Louise on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Madison Memorial Home, 159 Main Street, Madison.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Vincent Martyr Church, 26 Green Village Road, Madison. For those who are unable to attend the mass in person, please visit www.svmnj.org/livestream-mass

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