It is with heavy hearts that the children of Stella Peterson announce her passing at the age of 89.
Stella was born in New York City, raised on Staten Island and worked for four years at St. Vincent’s Hospital until she enlisted in the Marine Corps. She was stationed at Cherry Point when she met and married the love of her life, Morgan (Pete). They settled in Lincroft where they had many happy years – and six children!
Sadly, Pete lost his battle with colon cancer at age 34. She spent the next 19 years in Lincroft before moving to Middletown, where she resided for 36 years. She moved to Florida five years ago to be closer to family.
Stella leaves behind her six children, daughters Dawn, Teresa and Sandra and sons Stuart, Scott and Jess; 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and her beloved brother Eddie. She had a special place in her heart for her friends and neighbors in Middletown, who welcomed her into their home, treated her like family and watched over her, and her friend Vera, whom she considered one of the best friends she ever had.
Stella was a wonderful mother, friend and confidant to all of her children. She had an especially close bond with her daughter Dawn and without a doubt they were each other’s best friend. Stella always had a shoulder to lean on or to cry on, whichever was needed. She always had advice to offer, wanted or not. However, as is often the case – which we don’t like to admit – she was right most of the time. She was an adored and adoring Grandma and GiGi. Her love and pride for her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids was unconditional and endless. Her last weeks were spent surrounded by family, filled with so much love and laughter. We will all forever miss her.
Special thanks and appreciation for the wonderful, caring, compassionate staff at Treasure Coast Hospice and Hospice of Okeechobee. Words can’t express our gratitude.
Mass will be said in her name at 8:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 26 at St. Leo the Great Church, Lincroft, with graveside service and burial to be held at 10 a.m. the following day at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Middletown.
The article originally appeared in the September 9 – 15, 2021 print edition of The Two River Times.
