Rose Marie Lauricella

Rose Lauricella, 87, of Pennington, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family on Saturday, February 27 following a long illness. Born in Monticello, NY to Irving and Martha (Avery) Burger, Rose was the youngest and last surviving of their fourteen children. Upon the death of her mother when Rose was only 9 years old, she was sent to live with her older married brother Irving, and his wife Virginia, who were childless. They lived in a duplex on Perrine Avenue in Trenton that they shared with another brother John, wife Marge, and their young family. It was with this family that Rose grew up and developed a strong bond with her niece Virginia, who was like a sister to her. At this same house, seven years later, she would meet her future husband, Raymond Lauricella. He came to install a new furnace at the residence and two years later, married Rose. They started their family in Ewing, on Pennwood Drive before moving to Pennington.
Rose was predeceased by her husband, Ray, of 50 years, and is survived by her children- Joan D’Ottavio, Raymond Jr. and wife Karen Evanko, Glenn and wife Suzanne along with many grandchildren and great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother-in law Carl Lauricella and wife MaryLou, along with many nieces, nephews and friends, especially best friend Theresa Evanko and caring neighbors of 36 years, Marvin and Elizabeth Berkowitz.
Rose worked outside the home for most her life, finally retiring in 2002 after over twenty years with the Princeton Theological Seminary as supervisor for the housekeeping department where she was appreciated for her good humor, organizational skills as well as her home baked treats.
In her younger years, Rose sang in the St. James choir and helped in the kitchen during parish events. She was an active member of St George Church and she loved to cook and have family dinners. She also enjoyed going to and holding garage sales. However, her favorite past time was watching her grandsons, Tray and Justin Lauricella, participate in sports. She was an avid fan- no matter what the sport- soccer, track, wrestling or baseball- as long as they were in it.
A viewing and Mass will be held on Friday, March 5 at St. George Church- details on this site.
Special thanks goes to Samaritan Hospice and the team that provided Rose exceptional care these past weeks.
Memorial contributions may be donated in her name to St. George Church, 1370 River Rd., Titusville, NJ 08560.