Marilyn Nicola

Marilyn M. Nicola, 89, born August 11, 1936, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and welcomed into the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Born at St. James Hospital in Newark, NJ, Marilyn grew up in Union County and attended Irvington High School, where she was voted Miss Irvington. Her beauty was matched only by the kindness of her heart.
While working as a bank teller, the love story of her life began. One ordinary day, a young man named George Nicola walked through the bank doors, and it was love at first sight. God had written a love story that neither could deny. Soon after, they entered into marriage, and from their love came five beautiful children: George, John, Nick, Maria, and Charles. Together, they purchased a beautiful farm in Cranbury, NJ, where they raised their family, built traditions, and filled every room - and field - with laughter, music, and the sound of children and animals running free.
For 50 years, Marilyn and George lived a marriage rooted in faith, devotion, and joy. Their love was a living testimony of God's design for covenant and lifelong commitment.
Marilyn dedicated her life to her family - and what a joyful calling it was. She was described by her children as always positive, always laughing, and always making sure everyone else was laughing too. She made each of her children feel like they were the most important person in the world. Her home was warm, loud, faith-filled, and ever welcoming.
She was a loyal friend, a loving mother, and a proud grandmother who celebrated every accomplishment big or small. Marilyn also had a special place in her heart for animals, especially her beloved Dobermans and the four-legged family members who brought her endless companionship over the years.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, the Honorable Judge George Nicola. What a glorious reunion they now share in Heaven.
She is survived by her children: George and Loretta Nicola, John and Melissa Nicola, Nick Nicola, Maria Nicola and her fiancé John Perry, and Charles Nicola and his fiancé Patricia Gilmartin; her treasured grandchildren: Jonathan and Angela Nicola, Nicholas Nicola, Rebecca and Matthew McCullough, Billy and Annie Nicola, John Tyler Moeller, Thomas Nicola, Madison Moeller and her great-grandchildren: Francesca, Matthew, and Gianna, who adored her beyond measure.
In her final years, Marilyn was blessed to remain in the comfort of the Cranbury home where she raised her family - a gift her children treasure beyond words. The family wishes to lovingly recognize her son John, whose tireless care and selfless commitment allowed Mom to spend these last years where she belonged: surrounded by love, familiar laughter, and the memories she created. Because of that dedication, Marilyn passed away peacefully in the very living room where she once read bedtime stories, dried tears, and celebrated the joys of her children's lives.
Marilyn's legacy of joyful faith, compassion, music, laughter and devotion will live on forever in the hearts of those she touched.
"Well done, good and faithful servant Enter into the joy of your Lord." - Matthew 25:21"