Anthony Michael Morelli

Anthony Michael Morelli, 86, of Jackson, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, with his loved ones by his side at CentraState Medical Center.
Born in the Bronx, New York, Anthony moved to Manalapan, New Jersey in 1965, where he raised his family, built a successful career and greatly contributed to the Manalapan community up until his death. He was a member of the Manalapan-Englishtown Board of Education for 12 years, serving as President for 5 terms, Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Police Commissioner of Manalapan, Board of Trustees member of the Samaritan Center for over 30 years, First Parish Council President of St. Thomas More and served as Finance Committee Chairman. Anthony joined the Knights of Columbus Prince of Peace Council 5903 in 1970, where he remained active throughout his life. He was a 4th Degree Knight and Grand Knight. Anthony actively served on the Manalapan Police Department Domestic Violence Team. When his children were younger, Anthony was a Manalapan Little League Coach, Boy Scout Troop 157 Committee Chairman and Manalapan Football Program Referee. Anthony has been recognized by numerous organizations for his many achievements and his unwavering dedication and service to others.
Anthony was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard of New York, where he served as a flight engineer.
Anthony received his BBA and Master's degree from City College of New York before beginning a long and distinguished career in business. Prior to his retirement, he was employed as the Director of Headquarters Services and Facilities for the Philip Morris Company, Director of Administration for the Ford Foundation and Senior Vice President of the New York City Partnership.
Anthony was a quiet man who took great pride in everything he did and will be remembered for many things, but above all for his kindness, generosity and willingness to help others while wanting nothing in return. In his personal life, Anthony was an avid golfer and motorcyclist for over 50 years. He was a family man who cherished above all else his beloved wife of 65 years and his four children.
Anthony was predeceased by his beloved parents, Alfred and Catherine Morelli. Anthony is survived by his loving wife, Theresa Morelli; his four children - daughters MaryAnn Petrone (Frank) and Corinne Librizzi (Marc), and sons Anthony Morelli (Gayle) and Michael Morelli (Michele); his brother Arthur Morelli; sisters Marie Herschfield and Anne Arnold; and his cherished eleven grandchildren, Kevin Petrone, Allison Petrone, Lauren Petrone, Anthony Morelli, Henry Morelli, Clare Morelli, Kathryn Pezzulo, Michaella Sumsky, Marc Librizzi, Olivia Morelli, and Michael Morelli. He is also survived by his adored great-grandchildren, Daisy and Violet Pezzulo.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Sunday, December 28, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Freeman Manalapan Marlboro Funeral Home, 344 Route 9 North, Manalapan, New Jersey. A Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated on Monday, December 29, 2025 at 11:30 AM at St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church in Manalapan, New Jersey. Entombment will follow at St. Gabriel's Cemetery and Mausoleum.
To leave a condolence or for directions, please visit www.freemanfuneralhomes.com.