Joy Marion Montroni

Joy Marion Mildred Montroni of Old Bridge, a cherished mother known for her kind, loving, warm, and joyous personality, peacefully passed away at her home on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, with her loving daughters holding her hands.

Born on Fourth of July weekend in Somers Point, N.J., she was aptly named Joy by her adoring parents, Ferdinand "Freddie" and Gloria "Goody" Montroni. Joy was a devoted daughter, loving and proud mother, cherished cousin, fun aunt, and treasured friend.

Raised in North Arlington, she attended Queen of Peace Grammar and High Schools where she made lifelong friends. In October 1972, she married her high school sweetheart Michael "Mike" Mount. A year later, they welcomed their first born, and namesake Michele Joy. Their son Brian and baby girl Lorelle came along two and four years later, respectfully. Joy devoted her life to her children and their activities. The quintessential "class mom," she was the first one to volunteer to bake, plan events, and chaperone class trips. Joy was a founding member of the North Arlington Girls Basketball Program, and coached both of her daughters' Forest Office Supply teams for many years. There was nothing she enjoyed more than watching Brian play, and later coach, basketball. She served as an officer of the St. Michael's School PTA, including two terms as President. Joy developed a passion for politics and volunteered during local elections. She was elected to multiple terms as County Committeewoman in her district, and served several years as North Arlington's Welfare Program Director.

When Lorelle started Kindergarten, Joy returned to school. She earned her real estate license and paralegal certification. She worked for several local attorneys, eventually joining the banking industry. Joy served as a paralegal and commercial loan closer for many years, retiring from Provident Bank in 2022.

Joy was happiest while sailing with her loved ones and enjoyed more than 30 cruises and nearly 250 days at sea. She was the co-owner of Pure Joy Travels, a travel agency which she started with her daughters. This home-based agency will carry Joy's legacy for years to come.

Throughout her life, Joy radiated happiness and positivity. Her smile lit up a room and her laughter contagious. Her love for her family was second to none. She and her children have an extraordinary bond that transcends time and space.

Joy was most content at home and thoroughly enjoyed hosting holidays. She had an innate ability to make people feel special. Her Easter dinners were legendary, with her nephews (aka Aunt Joy's boys) - Steve, Dan, Kevin, Matt, and Tim – and niece Bethany. Joy was blessed with many cousins with whom she shared countless memories, stories, and laughs. She shared a special bond with her godmother Dolores; aunts Mary Hale and Jeanie McAvenue; cousins Rae, Linda, and Arlene; and nieces through marriage Catherine and Anna.

In her memory, Joy's family asks that you find time every day to be kind to those around you. Her legacy could not be honored in a more appropriate way.

Joy is predeceased by her dear son Brian, her former husband Mike, her "second" son Michael Peloso, her parents, godfather Charles Barone, and dear niece Cindy O'Neill.

Joy is survived by her beloved daughters Michele Joy and Lorelle, who were greatly enriched by their mother's essence. Her departure leaves an unfillable void in their lives, yet they find comfort in the memories and everlasting love they shared.

Funeral services will take place at 9:30am on Saturday, March 7 from the Carmen F. Spezzi Funeral Home, 15 Cherry Lane, Parlin with Catholic Funeral Mass offered at 11am at St. Michael the Archangel RC Church in Lyndhurst. A private cremation will immediately follow.

Calling hours at the funeral home are scheduled for Friday, March 6 from 4pm to 8pm.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Joy's name to the JustinTime Foundation at www.thejustintimefoundation.org.

For complete funeral details, directions, and to share messages of condolence for Joy's family, please visit www.spezzifuneralhome.com.