Alice A. Bontempo

In Loving Memory of Alice Ann Kelsey Bontempo
Alice Ann Kelsey Bontempo, a cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at her home on August 11, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 3, 1933, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to the late James and Alice Kelsey.
Alice's journey began in the heart of Jersey City before the family settled in Newark where she attended West Side High School, graduating in 1951. During her high school years, Alice's spirited nature shone through as she held the prestigious role of drum majorette. It was during this time that she also embarked on a lifelong journey of love and companionship with her beloved husband, Allan Bontempo, whom she married on August 27, 1955.
Her determination and passion led her to pursue a career in nursing, and in 1953, she proudly graduated from East Orange General Hospital School of Nursing later known as Upsala College. Following her education, Alice's compassionate nature guided her to dedicate her nurturing skills to caring for newborns in the nursery.
Together, Alice and Allan built a beautiful life, blessed with seven children: Nancy Linnell (James), Lisa DeFeo (Stephen), Alice Bontempo, Michael Bontempo (Gwynne), Linda Coleman (Lawrence), Ellen Paraiso (Charles), and AJ Bontempo (Danielle Lacko). Alice's devotion to her family was unwavering, and she embraced the joys and challenges of motherhood with grace and love.
Alice's commitment extended beyond her immediate family, as she was a dedicated volunteer at St. Joseph Church, St. Joseph Grade School, and St. Joseph/Msgr. Donovan High School, all located in Toms River, New Jersey. Her selflessness was evident through her involvement in various executive positions within the PTA and St. Joe's Angels Pop Warner football teams. She was an active member of the Rosary Altar Society and a cherished participant in a prayer group formed with friends from St. Joseph's Church. Alice often volunteered in the high school cafeteria and served at the church's Sunday Suppers.
Alice possessed an extraordinary talent for bringing people together, a gift she shared through her love of hosting expansive family dinners during holidays. She found immense joy in watching generations of children, grandchildren, and eventually great- grandchildren swim in the family pool, creating lasting memories and traditions.
Alice's adventurous spirit and love for exploring the world were evident in her travels across the country and beyond, accompanied by her cherished husband, Allan.
Their shared experiences enriched their lives and provided a testament to their enduring bond.
Alice was predeceased by her parents, James and Alice Kelsey, her brother James Kelsey, as well as her beloved husband, Allan Bontempo. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and strength that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She is survived by her seven children, 17 grandchildren, and 5 great- grandchildren, each a testament to the remarkable life she lived.
A funeral mass will be held Saturday, August 19 at 11:00 am at St. Joseph Church in Toms River, where she found solace and purpose. The family will receive friends from 3- 6 pm Friday, August 18 at Timothy E. Ryan Home for Funerals 145 St Catherine Blvd, Toms River.
As we bid farewell to Alice, we remember her as a beacon of light, a devoted matriarch, and a steadfast friend. Her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
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