Anna Gerlacki

Anna Laura Gerlacki June 17, 1954 – October 8, 2025 Anna Laura Gerlacki, 71, of Brick, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2025, hand in hand with her daughters. Born and raised in Philadelphia, she spent her summers in Waretown with her family, where her lifelong love of nature, laughter, and togetherness first took root.
She and her late husband, Mike, built their life together in Brick, NJ, where they raised their daughters, Jennifer and Kristin. Together, they owned and operated Happy Catering in Shore Acres - a beloved family business that reflected Anna's warmth, generosity, and joy in bringing people together. Their cherished time at their cabin in Upstate New York created treasured memories and family traditions that continue to live on through those she loved most. After her years in Brick, Anna retired to a peaceful home in Lumberton with her loving companion, Gregg "Doc" Richardson. There, she found happiness surrounded by nature, animals, and the comfort of home.
Anna's compassion extended far beyond her own circle. She dedicated herself to caring for others as a home health aide and volunteering with CASA, where she became an advocate and friend to many children in need of love and support. Selfless in every sense of the word, Anna's heart was open to all - people and animals alike. She especially adored her beloved chickens and her spirited rooster, Petey.
Anna is survived by her daughters and their husbands, Jennifer and Brian Cali, Kristin and Rich Levesque, and by her cherished grandchildren-Andrew, Ashley, Sophia, Collin, Owen, and Dylan - each one a bright reflection of her love and spirit.
A memorial service celebrating Anna's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at Saint Joseph's Cemetery in Toms River, NJ, where she will be laid to rest beside her husband and the father of her children - united again in eternal peace. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Anna's memory to Muddy Paws Farm Rescue at: https://www.muddypawsfarmrescue.org/donate- a cause close to her heart.
All arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Carmona Bolen Home for Funerals, 412 Main St., Toms River, NJ. Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.carmonabolenfh.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Anna, please visit our floral store.