Rose Astrella

Rose Astrella (née Damiani), 100, died on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, just weeks before her 101st birthday. Following her wishes, Rose was at home surrounded by her sons and family when she passed. Rose was born in Lyndhurst, New Jersey, just a few houses down from where she lived her entire life. After graduating high school, she worked for Western Electric in Kearny. She met, then married her beloved Willie Astrella in 1946 and left Western Electric to begin their family together. Willie tragically passed away at age 45, on December 23, 1968, just days before Christmas. A determined and steadfast woman driven by love, Rose was committed to her family and single-handedly raised her sons. She persevered and secured a job as a receptionist for Fairleigh Dickinson University in Rutherford, balancing family life and work all the while. When Rose finally retired from her position at FDU at the age of 70, she wanted to stay fit and be involved in her community, so she joined a gym. She spent the next two decades exercising and doing pilates several times a week.
Rose was a devout Catholic and member of Sacred Heart Church, as well as the senior groups in town. She was fiercely independent and could often be spotted driving her white Jetta around town all the way up until she was 95 years of age. Rose was celebrated by the Town of Lyndhurst on her 100 th birthday, joining the exclusive club of centenarians in her hometown. Rose's small stature was no match for the big heart and warm smile that she shared with everyone she met. Although we are sad, we find peace in knowing that Rose is with her beloved Willie and family that have gone before her. Rose is predeceased by her beloved husband of 22 years, Willie Astrella; her sisters, Anne Duffy (née Damiani) and Mildred Damiani; and her brothers, Dominick, Johnny Dee, and Joseph Damiani. She is survived by her loving sons, Daniel Astrella and his wife, Karen; and Dennis Astrella and his wife, Kathleen; also by her adored grandchildren, Danielle Getty (Bill), Nicole Ward (Jeff), Christopher Astrella (Lacey), Kait and Karissa Astrella; and by her precious great grandchildren, Will, Lily, Natalie, Brad, Claire and Henry. All three of Rose's great granddaughters are honored to have the middle name Rose.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation held at Nazare Memorial Home Inc., 403 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst on Sunday, November 16, 2025, from 2PM–6PM. All will gather at the funeral home on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 10AM, then to Sacred Heart Church, Lyndhurst where at 11AM, a funeral mass will be offered. Interment to follow, Holy Cross Cemetery. You may express condolences by using our tribute wall.