Lorenzo Centrella

Lorenzo Centrella, 78, of Matawan, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Bayshore Hospital, surrounded by the love and presence of his children, Ashley and Gabriel, and his former wife and dear friend, Mary.

Born on June 15, 1947, in the charming town of Torrioni, Avellino, Italy, to Gabriele and Francesca Centrella, Lorenzo carried with him the soul of his homeland and the dreams of a better life. As a young man, he bravely left Italy to pursue the American Dream. With hard work and passion, he built a life for his family and a legacy that would touch countless others.

Lorenzo was best known as the proud founder and heart behind Lorenzo's Family Pizzeria, where he shared the warmth of Italian cooking and hospitality with his community. For decades, his food brought people together, offering not just meals, but memories-of laughter, family, and comfort. His kitchen was his canvas, and every dish was a gift of love.

Outside of the pizzeria, Lorenzo found peace in nature. He was an avid and skilled fisherman, always happiest near the water, eager to share his favorite spots and tips with anyone who showed an interest. He was also a gifted gardener, turning even the smallest patch of land into something thriving and fruitful.

But Lorenzo's greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted father who never missed a school pickup, a proud grandfather, who lit up in their presence, and a loyal brother who cherished the bonds of his large, loving family. His weekends were filled with laughter, food, and quality time with those he held dear.

In his final years, Lorenzo faced profound health challenges with quiet strength and unwavering courage. He bravely battled both pulmonary fibrosis and Parkinson's disease, never allowing them to steal his spirit. He met each day with determination, grace, and the love of his family by his side.

Lorenzo is survived by his beloved children: Lorenzo, Ashley, and Gabriel, and their spouses, Josephine, Daine, and Nadiyah. He was a treasured grandfather to Naomi, Lorenzo, Zachary, Merci, Gabriel, Isabella, Mia, Liliana, and Peyton, and Gabrielle. His presence and love will echo through generations.

He was also a cherished brother to Maria, Filippo, Vincenzo, Carolina, Teresa, Dora, Ugo, Clorinda, Giovanni, Arcangela, and Alba-siblings who shared his life story from its earliest chapters.

Lorenzo's generosity and strength will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in the memories he created, the meals he served, and the love he gave so freely. We will carry him with us always, until we meet again.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Monday, September 1, 2025, from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at Shore Point Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 3269 State Highway/Route 35 North, Hazlet, NJ 07730. A prayer service will be held during the visitation hours. Following the service, all are warmly invited to a repass dinner at the family home to continue honoring Lorenzo's life. In accordance with Lorenzo's wishes, he will be privately cremated.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Lorenzo's memory may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation at www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/tribute-program

For more information or to share condolences, please visit www.shorepointfh.com.