CURRENT CELEBRATIONS

Joanne Canduci

A caring and loving presence, Joanne was the one everyone turned to; not just for advice or comfort, but for a plate of food that could feed an army. She cooked everything from scratch, taking great pride in her meals. Her kitchen was a place of tradition, love, and unmatched flavor. Holidays were always celebrated at her house, with tables overflowing with food and more leftovers than guests. Her legendary cookie trays, homemade bread, pasta, and family recipes made each gathering memorable.

She wasn’t just a mother, she was a mother figure to many. A caretaker by nature, someone who made you feel seen and supported. Her real calling was becoming a Nonna and MomMom, her grandchildren cherished their time with her, knowing that in her eyes, they could do no wrong. Whether sitting with her at the table, helping in the kitchen, or just basking in her presence, they knew they were deeply loved.

Joanne met a handsome guy the late Anthony who lived just a couple houses down from her in Sicily, and soon after they wed. They spent 71 loving years married, a testament to the enduring love and respect they shared. Summers meant jarring tomatoes together and traveling the world to Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, Argentina, and even the Holy Land (Israel) to visit the birthplace of Jesus. They traveled to the United States together and started their family there.

She is survived by her two sons Victor (Sandra) Canduci, Anthony (Kimberly) Canduci, and her grandchildren Jacqueline (Michael), Victor, Ryan, Nicholas, and Thomas, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins; her brother Nino; and brother-in-law Salvatore. She is predeceased by her husband Anthony; her sisters: Sarina (Agostino) and Mary.

Come celebrate 87 great years on Thursday May 15th from 6pm to 8pm at Sweeney Funeral Home, 337 Bridgeboro Street, Riverside and Friday May 16th at St. Joseph’s Church 10am-11am where there will be a 11am mass at Jesus the Good Shepherd, St. Joseph’s church, 805 Warren St, Beverly. Entombment immediately to follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Riverside. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Samaritan Hospice https://www.samaritannj.org/