Carmela Zaino

Carmela Zaino, affectionately known as "Millie", of Belleville, NJ, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, on June 26, 2025. She was 97 years old.

Carmela is survived by her loving children: son Joseph Rocco Zaino and daughter-in-law Patricia Zaino; daughter Roxanne Zaino Auricchio. She was the proud and cherished 'Nanni' of her five grandchildren: Louis, Neil, Christina, Alex and Liana.

Born in 1928 in Montclair, New Jersey, Carmela was the beloved daughter of Joseph and Donata Bevilacqua. She was predeceased by her parents, siblings, and devoted husband, Rocco Zaino, who was the first and last love of her life. Together they built a beautiful family and home rooted in faith, tradition and love. Carmela was a devout Catholic, a woman of selflessness and strength, and a shining example of what it means to be a child of God.

Her Catholic faith was her foundation. Carmela was a devoted parishioner of Holy Family Roman Catholic Church in Nutley, NJ. She lived in accordance with faith and had a meaningful relationship with the Church and its clergy.

She will always be remembered for her love of cooking, baking, and of course, eating. Carmela shared her love by nurturing anyone in need, her acts of kindness extended far beyond family, touching friends, clergy, and her community. Which was an enduring testament to her selflessness, generosity and warm heart. She was the woman behind countless full stomachs, joyful hearts, and treasured memories. Carmela was defined by her unwavering faith, deep love for both the Lord and her family, her passion for service and the joy she found in giving. These exceptional qualities are why she will live on in the hearts of many with love and admiration.

Relatives and friends are invited to pay tribute to Carmela at a Funeral Mass to be celebrated on Wednesday, July 9, at 10:30 AM at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, Nutley, NJ with services to follow at Immaculate Conception Cemetery, 712 Grove St. Montclair, NJ 07043.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Carmela's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, stjude.org, a charity close to her heart.