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Denise P. Carelli, a lifelong resident of Ridgefield, a devoted educator, creative soul and beloved family member, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2025. A dedicated teacher's assistant for special needs children for over 20 years, Denise was a passionate supporter of education and a proud member of the NJ Education Association. She retired in 2020 from the Ridgefield Board of Education leaving behind a legacy of compassion.
Before her career in education, she worked as a sales representative for Swiss Maid for 25 years.
Outside of work, she found joy in crafting, often spending hours creating beautiful handmade pieces for her family and friends. A frequent visitor to Atlantic City, Denise loved the energy of the boardwalk, the sparkle of the lights and the thrill of the games. She will be remembered for her kind heart, steady spirit and love of life's little pleasures.
Denise was predeceased by her father, Peter and her cousin Anne. She is survived by her loving mother, Gloria; her brother Paul; her nephew Adam and his wife Kara; her nieces Cassie and her husband Brian Balint, and Samantha; her cherished great nephew and great niece, Gavin and Fiona. She also leaves behind her dear cousins Anita Colangelo, Paul of Florida, Lori of Wisconsin, and Debbie, Louie, Donna, Michael and Mark of California.
Please join the family as they celebrate her life on Saturday, April 26, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm at Blackley Funeral Home, 809 Broad Avenue, Ridgefield, NJ 07657.
Funeral Mass on Monday, April 28, 2025, 10:00 am at St. Matthew's RC Church, Ridgefield, NJ
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Denise P Carelli, please visit our floral store.