Marion Mercolino

Marion M. Mercolino, a cherished soul whose life journey began on February 8, 1941, in Scranton, PA, and concluded with grace on July 1, 2025, in Springfield, NJ, has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. She navigated through life's ebbs and flows with unwavering faith and a spirit that radiated positivity, touching all those she met with her kindness and warmth.

Marion's story is one of love, resilience, and the joy of living. She was the beloved matriarch of a family that revered her as the epitome of strength and compassion. Survived by Kathleen Quintela, her devoted daughter; grandsons Jeremy and Justyn Quintela, who were the apple of her eye; her baby sister Diane Bogdan and brother-in-laws Frank Bogdan and Emilio Lucciola; her nieces Christine Crimaldi and Amy Dolly; and her nephew Victor Lucciola and his wife Chrisann. Marion was predeceased by her younger sister Rose Lucciola, her mother Blanche Allison, her father William Lattoz, and many other family members who had enriched her life. Her legacy continues to flourish through the lives of her great-nieces, nephews, cousins, and a constellation of friends who found in her a second mother, particularly Al Stern and Fred Quintela.

Marion's educational journey began at Bayonne High School, and her professional life was characterized by dedication and excellence. She spent several years as a secretary at Dillin Tire in Bayonne, where she forged lifelong friendships with the Dillin's. Her career path led her to Colgate Palmolive in Jersey City, NJ, where she ascended to the role of Credit Union Manager before retiring from the company's Piscataway, NJ, location after many years of service.

As a Christian who lived by the principles of her faith, Marion's life was a testament to the power of love, kindness, and community. She enjoyed worshipping every Sunday with her daughter at Renaissance Church. When she wasn't able to attend, she worshipped watching the on-line service in the comfort of her home. She was an active member of the Red Hat Ladies, embracing life with a zeal that was both inspiring and contagious. Her love of red and purple attire, matched with her signature red and purple hat, became a symbol of her vibrant personality and her passion for connection and celebration.

Marion's interests were as diverse and colorful as her personality. She was an avid traveler, with the islands of Aruba and St. Maarten holding a special place in her heart. Europe's allure beckoned her, and she answered the call, exploring its many countries and cultures. Even when at home, she traveled vicariously through the travel station, imagining herself in the midst of far-off lands. Her love for the arts was evident in her appreciation of English shows, murder mysteries, and the heartwarming narratives of the Hallmark channel.

In her younger years, the allure of New York City drew Marion to its theaters, restaurants, and festive holiday displays. As a senior, she continued to embrace adventure through bus trips to Atlantic City, NYC, and beyond. Her zest for life was truly infectious.

The quote, "What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us," by Helen Keller, encapsulates the essence of Marion's life philosophy. She believed that the love and joy we share with others are eternal, transcending the bounds of time and space.

Marion M. Mercolino's journey on earth may have reached its sunset, but the dawn of her legacy is everlasting. Her life was a beautiful mosaic of faith, love, and joyful living-a beacon that will continue to inspire and guide those who had the privilege of knowing her. Marion's story is not one of farewell, but a celebration of a life well-lived and a soul that will forever dance in the light of the lives she touched.