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Dora Scelsa Obituary

SCELSA
Dora (nee Abate), 84, died on Saturday, August 24, 2013.
Mrs. Scelsa was born and raised in Italy, moved to Lyndhurst 59 years ago where she lived many years and has been a resident of Toms River for the past 22 years. She was a Packer for Becton Dickinson, East Rutherford for 16 years before retiring in 1989. Dora is predeceased by her beloved husband, Michael R. Scelsa in 2002.
She is survived by her loving children, Michael V. Scelsa and his wife, Rose Mary, Donna Wolfe and her husband, Rudy and Karen Brave and her husband, Tony, by her seven dear grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Also survived by three sisters and two brothers who live in Italy.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral from the Nazare Memorial Home, Inc., 403 Road, Lyndhurst on Wednesday, August 28, 2013 at 8:30 AM then to St. Joseph's Church, East Rutherford where at 9:30 AM a Funeral Mass will be offered. Entombment, Holy Cross Chapel Mausoleum, North Arlington. Visiting hours Tuesday 4-8 PM. Please visit us at www.nazarefuneral.home.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Record/Herald News on Aug. 27, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Dora Scelsa

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Donna G. Wolfe

August 21, 2025

Happy 12 years in heaven mom. How life has changed since you left us all. The one thing that remains the same is the love that you instilled in all of us. We think of you daily and we miss our "Amazing" mother and grandmother always. Please continue to watch over all of us, as we continue to pray for you.

YOUR DAUGHTER WITH LOVE

August 21, 2025

WE NEVER FORGET! MISS AND LOVE YOU FOREVER! ALWAY'S IN OUR THOUGHT'S AND HEART'S.

Donna Scelsa Wolfe

August 22, 2024

Dear Mom! It´s been 11 years already and you are missed so very much each and everyday. How I miss our daily chats and all of the love that you gave to all of us. Rest well amongst the angels and always remember how very much we adored you. Always in my heart . Donna

Karen

August 24, 2023

Never Forget you Mom! Alway's & Forever! Miss you too much and Love you.

Donna Wolfe

August 21, 2023

Dearest Mom! It´s hard to believe that 10 years have gone by since you left us. Not a day goes by that you are not in my heart and my thoughts. I miss your love and support more than words can say. I pray that you are at peace in heaven and always watching over us. Give my love to dad and Rudy and always remember just how much you are missed and love. Eternal rest in the arms of the Lord mom. Until we meet again...much love.

Karen Brave

August 28, 2022

Dearest Mom, it has never gotten easier or better with time, since you left us all. God Bless you always and remain at peace and tranquility Forever!

Donna Wolfe

August 24, 2021

Happy Anniversary in heaven mom. How fast these eight years have gone, and not a day goes by that we don´t miss your laughter, your beautiful blue eyes, and most of all your love. Please continue to watch over all of us and rest well in heaven. Eternal Peace and infinite love Donna

Karen Brave

August 23, 2021

Dear Mom: It has been 8 year's since we lost the love our lives, and not a second goes by that we don't think of you and remember our precious Mother. We know you are resting in peace and that gives us comfort. Sending our memories, love, hugs, kisses to you , alway's and forever. YOUR FAMILY!

KAREN BRAVE

August 24, 2020

It has all been said , already. A very special Mom ,so very missed and loved till eternity!

Donna Wolfe

August 21, 2020

Good Morning Dearest Mom! In a few days we will be coming up on your 7th anniversary in heaven and not a day goes by that I don't feel the pain of your loss. I get to hold the memory of you so close to my heart. You were such an AMAZING mother to your three children and you had the ability to always let us know just how loved and cherished we were. I know that I get my strength, conviction and determination from you and failure is not in my vocabulary. You overcame much adversity throughout your life, and the way you lived with such grace and courage continues to inspire me. These have been trying times mom and a part of me is glad that you have not had to experience them. Please continue to be our guardian angel and watch over our family. I can never express the depth of my love for you. No one has ever made me feel as loved and lovely as you have. Thank you for leaving me with that gift. Rest in peace alongside dad and remember what a loving footprint you left on this earth. You were truly one "special" lady. Eternal love, Donna

Karen BRAVE

August 24, 2019

My Dearest Mom: Today is 6 year's you have left and it seem's like yesterday. I miss you so, so much. I keep you near to me each second of the day. You were special , fun, conversationlist, and caring and loving friend and Mother. I know your at peace and near God and angel's. Today and Alway's and Forever, Love You!

Karen Brave

December 12, 2018

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR LOVELY MOM TODAY! WE ARE CELEBRATING YOUR LIFE TODAY, ALWAY'S AND FOREVER. LOVE YOU SO AND MISS YOU WAY TO MUCH.

Karen Brave

August 24, 2018

Dearest Mom: Your family is thinking of you this day, as we do each day. We miss you so so much, and there has been such a void in all our lives, since you have left. We know you are at peace with the Lord and family is close to you alway's. All our love and remember, how special you were in all our lives.

Karen Brave

April 22, 2018

She was the best! Never have or will stop missing my Mom forever. I lost my best friend, but I know , she is very near . Love you so Mom, and know you are in a peaceful place forever.

Karen B.

September 24, 2014

Hi Mom: Want to wish you and Dad a Happy Anniversary! You are both so close together, continuing your love, always and forever. Miss you both so, love and always will forever! Your daughter, Karen Also,So Long for now.

Luciana Abate

August 28, 2014

Cara Dora,il 23 agosto ci ha ricordato che è già passato un anno da quando non sei più tra noi, anche se ogni giorno ti abbiamo sentito vicina con il tuo sorriso e con la tua dolcezza.
Sento attraverso questo Book che la tua grande famiglia ti ha ricordato con serenità e amore.
Io,da Roma, ho pensato con affetto a tutti voi e a te con grande nostalgia, ma anche con la certezza che tu sei felice e vivi sempre nei nostri cuori.
Luciana

August 25, 2014

Good Morning Mom! Yesterday was a tough day....all I could think about the night before was "what was your last hour of life like? Were you frightened or were you at peace. It is comforting to know that you left this world on your terms, in your home and surrounded by loved ones. The family gathered yesterday and it was wonderful to be able to remember you together... you would have wanted it that way. There was laughter, sorrow, too much food, of course, and at the end of the night, six of your great-grandchildren released white balloons into the heavens as they proclaimed their love to you. It was wonderful! Rest well, my amazing mother, and know that we could never forget you or all of the love that you have given to us. My heart is full. Amore XOXO

KAREN B.

August 23, 2014

My Dear Mom:
A Year is here that you left, and hard to believe that time has passed by so fast. It seems like yesterday, the bad dream. So, I will leave you with how much you are missed and always will be, and loved forever, but you are in a better place with the angels and at peace with Dad and Bella. But knowing you are so near, brings me comfort and a feeling of still having you around. God Bless You Always and Forever and I will leave you with Always and Forever and Just Miss and Love you So!

Your Daughter, Always, Karen
LOVE IS NEVER HAVING TO SAY GOOD-BYE!

Karen B.

July 28, 2014

Hi Mom:

Just want to say hello and miss you so much, as usual. There seems to never be closure and never will because I miss and love you so much. Well, I will write back very soon. All my love, me.

Karen B.

June 15, 2014

HI Mother: (Dad To):
Today we are celebrating Father's Day in memory of Dad. And each day we think of you always, and Dad, too. Thank God you both are at peace with one another and together, Bella also. Miss you both so much, and day's will never be the same without both of you in our lives.
Love, Karen and God Bless you Both Always and Forever!

KAREN B.

May 11, 2014

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! mom BLESS YOU FOREVER!

Karen B.

May 10, 2014

My Dearest Mom:

We are all thinking of you so,so, much, especially today, Mother's Day! As we do everyday. Mother's Day will always have a void, because you are not here with us anymore. But continue to carry on with our families, the way you raised us, with love, respect, patience, compassion, support, happiness, humor and smiles, through the good and bad. This day is honor of you, and although is a sad one without you here, we know you are watching over us, and are with us, always. Thoughts and our prayers and of course, such wonderful memories of the past. I love and miss you, always and forever will.
Happy Mama Day to you. Hugs, love, and of course, plenty of kisses to you, o.k. Your family.

April 20, 2014

Good Morning Mom and Happy Easter in heaven. The family gathered last night...it was nice, but your presence was certainly missed by all. You are in every fiber of my being and I couldn't be prouder to be your daughter. Rest well and abundant love to both you and dad. Always, XOXO

Luciana Abate

April 19, 2014

Carissima Dora,
è Pasqua e con grande tristezza ricordolo scorso anno quando potevo parlarti e scambiare con te mille notizie.Io ti parlavo di noi e tu mi parlavi della tua grande famiglia.Skipe ci aveva permesso di fare lunghe telefonate e di raccontarci tutto, come non era mai stato in tempi più lontani. Ho tanta nostalgia di te e non so rassegnarmi a non sentire più la tua voce.
Ora stai in compagnia di tuo marito, della nostra mamma, del papà, di Clorinda, Ruggero, Olinda,Benito: la gran parte della nostra famiglia sta con te ed hai trovato lì anche il mio piccolo Fulvio.
Ti penso sempre e ricordo con tanto affetto Danna, Karen, Michael e le loro care famiglie.
Riunisco tutti in un grande abbraccio.
Luciana

Karen B.

April 18, 2014

Hi Mama:

Wishing you a Happy Easter, and thinking of you again,as usual. I miss you too much, but keeping you in my everyday thoughts gives me some peace. I remember the 'Lily' was always your favorite flower around springtime. Your in my prayers through this blessed season, and will always remain. Blessings to you and Dad.

Hugs, love, kisses from me. Always,Karen

Karen B.

April 1, 2014

My Dear Mamma:

Just a hello, thinking again the last couple of days about you and all the great and fun memories together, and gosh, boring without you, no more fun, and laughter, that is why we hold on to all of the past together,and will always. Keep on missing you so, and will never stop, also, Dad, but always thinking of both of you all the time. Love and miss you too much, too too much. Karen Will write soon again.

Karen B.

March 21, 2014

Hi Mom:

Just to let you know that Spring has arrived, and we know it was one of your favorite seasons. Just one. Thinking of you all the time. Miss you so.

Always, Karen

Karen B.

March 5, 2014

Hi Mom:
Just a reminder, that today, is a very special person's birthday in your life. He is thinking of you, and reading your past birthday cards, which makes him know, that you are close to him and sharing his special day. He knows that you did not forget. Will keep in touch, and once again we all love and miss you so, always and forever.

Karen B.

February 24, 2014

Dear Mom:

I came to visit you, but you were not there, and just was not the same, and will never be the same, like the old day's, but all of your family was there, all the special people that love and miss you soo, and Dad too, of course, and for that it was a very special day, and we all felt your presence. You will always be there with Dad, and with us forever, no one can replace you, but we all continue the love and warmth and respect, as a family, that you have always wanted, and for that, we are all grateful. Stay warm, and will speak to you soon, again. Hugs, love, Kisses, Your daughter and friend,forever and always.
KAREN
KAREN

January 29, 2014

Ditto for me Mom. I have to remind myself each and every day that you are no longer in our lives...and when I do remember, it just too much! Love you so!!

Family

January 28, 2014

Hi Mama;

Just want to say hi to you, and miss you so, hard to believe it has been 5 months, you have left. But we are all still very sad, and just constantly think of you, as we continue with life everyday. Well, once again, we love you so and will keep in touch, soon again.

Karen B.

January 10, 2014

Dear Mom:

Today is a special day for me, and I am so missing your call. But, I celebrate life, because you were able to give it to me. I have your last card you sent me, always near to me, and I reflect on it especially today, and put's a ray of sunshine in my day and a great, big smile on my face, and know, that you are thinking of me also and remembering. Close to my heart, always, and forever in my thoughts.

Love, Karen

Karen B.

January 7, 2014

Hi Mama,

I am sure that you are happy that your best companion is also with you and Dad. We always have loved her, and always will and will miss her so, because she was a part of you connected with you everyday in your life. Maybe, it just was a broken heart from missing you so, or old age, we will never know, but she will always be our BEAUTIFUL BELLA! Another very sad day for all of us once again. We at least are comforted, knowing you are all with one another and at peace. So much love and missing you all always and forever.
Your family!

January 4, 2014

Dear Mom,
Karen, Brit and I miss you terribly. It was very difficult getting through this past holiday season without you. However, fond memories and pictures pulled us through. Happy New Year to you and Dad. Please help guide us through 2014.

Love always,

Tony

January 3, 2014

Dear Mom & Dad! Just a little note to say "Happy New Year" in Heaven! We are not too encouraged about a Happy New Year here on Earth, however, we do hope that you are both looking down on all of us and guiding us through the rough days. The holidays this year were sad and lonely! Only the memories of holidays past put a smile on my face for a short time. Pray that I have the strength to cope with what lies ahead for Kevin & I and, keep a watchful eye on all of us please. Heartfelt love and rest well. Always, Donna

Karen B.

January 2, 2014

Dear Mom,

We have just celebrated Dad's birthday, and now we are in a New Year. Hard to believe, how fast time goes by, and life goes on, no matter what, well, once again and always,still missing you so, so much, and think of you all the time, and always will, no matter what is the time, date, day or month or year. Love you so, Me!

Karen B.

December 25, 2013

Our Dearest Mom:

Well, here it is Christmas Eve, and also, 4 months on the day, that our hearts were broken and lost the love of all our lives! It does not really matter, what day it is, because you are always and forever in our everyday lives. We will try not to shed any tears, because we know, you are spending Christmas with Dad and Jesus this year. Merry Christmas to you and Dad, and you are both with us all always! So much Love, Hugs, Kisses, continues to be our gift's, once again, to the both of you, our parents'
Loving thoughts, All your children and family!

December 13, 2013

Dear Mom! Wasn't quite sure what day to send my wishes. Almost my entire life it has been the 12th, but your birth certificate says the 13th, so I will go with that date. I've been wondering how your 1st b'day in heaven was? Did you celebrate with Frank Sinatra? Anyway, just know that I thought about you all day, just like I do each and every day. This time of the year is so tough for so many reasons, but I know that you are with us all every minute of every day. So happy 85th Dora, sent to you with an abundance of love and a very heavy heart! Always, Donna

FAMILY

December 12, 2013

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOTHER:

HUGS SO MUCH LOVE KISSES

IT HAS BEEN ANOTHER STRUGGLING DAY COMING TO GRIPS WITH IT ALL, BUT WE KEEP YOU CLOSE TO US ALL, AND YOU CONTINUE TO KEEP US ALL GOING FORWARD.

MISSING YOU ALOT!HAPPY,HAPPY TO YOU!

Karen B.

December 11, 2013

Our Dearest Mom: 12/12/13
A very special day is here,your birthday! You know we are all thinking and of you, like everyday, and missing you as always, and will celebrate all the happiness and love and fun you that you lived everyday in your life and ours. A special angel is with you today, on your day, and always, and the day you were born, the world and most of all your family and friends were blessed to have you in all of our lives. Miss you all the time, and the sun is shining bright today, just for you. With special thoughts and memories of you continuing, we love you and will celebrate your life.

Your Family and Friends and Bella, too.

November 27, 2013

Dear Mom! I echo everything that Karen said. Your loss has been unbearable, but you and dad will remain ever so close to our hearts. I know that your presence will be with us all tomorrow, for you are the reason that the holidays are so important to us. Children live by example, and you were the BEST example ever! Family first, always, even on our worst days. I love you to the moon and back and I miss you both terribly. Rest well mom and please keep an extra watchful eye over me. Forever, Donna

KAREN BRAVE

November 27, 2013

Hello to Mom again,

Well, so far we have passed you and Dad's Wedding Anniversary, Dad's passing day, Halloween, Fall, now Thanksgiving, and then Christmas. Just want you to know, and Dad, also, we are all in it together. So winter is on the way, all our love will keep both of you warm and so very near and dear to our hearts. Love you both so, and miss you both much.

God Bless You Both!

Karen

KAREN B.

November 26, 2013

Our Blessed Mom,

We are at a difficult time now, the holiday's with you missing physically, but not mentally, both you and Dad. We shall and are, so thankful and blessed, for having such special parent's. It won't be the same, ever again, but we have to continue, the tradition, because you and Dad would want it that way. Our parent's will be our centerpiece of memories, love, and blessings and gratefullness, in all of our lives. God Bless You Both, Remain at Peace with each other, and Hugs,So Much Love, and Kisses, from all of us here. As always, Your Family!

November 12, 2013

Dear Mom! Just wanted to say how much I miss you calling on this day and singing "happy B'day to me. Thank you for the gift of life and for being the kind of mother that I can only wish to be. I miss you terribly!! Much Love, D.

Karen B.

November 3, 2013

Hi Mamma,

Thought alot about you today, like any other day. Sometimes it just does not seem true. But you are always near, and
continue to be forever! Love you Miss You So Much, Always. Karen and your Family.

October 24, 2013

Dear Mom! Just wondering how your past two months in heaven have been? I know that it has been difficult for us here on earth. Missing you terribly:( Love, hugs & kisses to both you & dad. Always, your loving children XOXO

Family Scelsa

October 15, 2013

A day of memories for our family again, today. God Bless the Both of You and Rest in Peace Always Together & Forever Amen!

Karen Brave

October 14, 2013

Dear Mom, thinking of you and Dad and being together at peace with each other. I miss you both so much! You both will always be so close in my heart and thoughts and prayers, each day, forever. I love and miss both of you so very much. Karen

October 3, 2013

Dear Mom! Today your 7th great-grandchild was born. I couldn't help but think about how excited you would be to see how beautiful he is. Danielle & Anthony got engaged today too! Somehow, I think that you already know all of this. Your legacy for a strong, loving family will live on in all of us...this I know for sure. Missing you terribly. Donna

September 27, 2013

Dear Mom:

It's been just over a month since you passed and I miss you terribly. I can't really believe you are gone. You were such a presence in my life that I can never replace. Thank you for all you did for us.

Tony

FAMILY

September 25, 2013

Dear Mom:

We are leaving these comforting, beloved thoughts of you now, on this page, but you will always remain in our thoughts, hearts and lives forever!

Family

September 24, 2013

A Day of Remembering! In all our thoughts and prayers, today, and everyday. Mom & Grandma

Donna Wolfe

September 21, 2013

Dear Mom, It is a month today since you have been gone and the pain in our hearts is just too much some days. I can almost feel your piercing blue eyes looking into mine. The hearts of your children & grandchildren are beating a little slower these days. We miss you so...All of our love forever, XOXOXO

Family

September 20, 2013

World Gratitude Day and just want Mom to know how we are all thankful and grateful for having had you, Mom in all our lives.Just want to let you know, not a second goes by, when you are not in our thoughts and the memories of you that we all hold so dear in our hearts!

Luciana Abate

September 19, 2013

Cara Dora, sei stata per me una splendida sorella. Non posso pensare che non sentirò più la tua voce, l'intreccirsi delle nostre confidenze, delle nostre risate e di qualche pianto. Mi mancheràla gioia e l'affetto che riuscivamo a comunicarci con il telefono, ma sono certa che troveremo altri modi per mantenere vivi la memoria e l'amore per sempre. Luciana

Daniela Ermano

September 15, 2013

Cara Zia sei stata per me un riferimento di eleganza bellezza, gentilezza di modi, postura e simpatia, che hanno influenzato la mia personalitá. Grazie con tutto il cuore di essere esistita. Con amore. Tua nipote Sabrina (Daniela Ermano)

Your Family

September 11, 2013

Hi Mom, Just want to let you know we are all thinking of you and missing you so much on this memorable day. Love and miss you so. Your Family!

Karen Scelsa

September 4, 2013

Darkness, Loneliness, and Sorrow,God makes a promise for a brighter tomorrow. We knew, we would miss you terribly, but, just never realized, the extent of your abscence,in all our lives, Mom!

September 4, 2013

Darkness,Loneliness,and Sorrow, the Lord promises a brighter tomorrow. Things happen for a reason, does not matter what season. We knew we would miss you terribly, but now we realize how much!

Kevin Wolfe

August 30, 2013

Dear Grandma,

You were the best grandmother that anyone could ask for. I am going to miss you so much. You were an amazing person and extremely caring. Rest Well and Remember BUTTERFLIES ARE FREE and SO ARE YOU AND ME. I LOVE YOU!

Dee Dee Brave

August 29, 2013

Your light will burn inside us all forever.
All my love,
Dee Dee

Dee Dee Brave

August 29, 2013

Dora Scelsa...the first words that come to mind when I think of you are classy, intelligent, caring, compassionate, beautiful both inside and out, supportive, warm, loving, matriarch...the list is endless. There are no words to truly express just how sorely you will be missed. You were unquestionably one of a kind. You've touched so many lives, and each of us who've loved you are better people for having had you in our lives. You'll live our hearts forever. I'll never forget you and to be sure, I'll carry a little bit of you with me always.
All my heartfelt love and respect,
Dee Dee

Nancy Korsen

August 29, 2013

You were such an amazing friend to me also my guide and confidant. I'll never forget you and all the things we did together. You have a great family too! Hope your at peace now. Love you!

Tony Brave

August 29, 2013

Dear Mom:
Thank you for all your love and support these past 40 years. You were the clue that held our family together. I will always remember the your love and I will never forget you.

All my love,
Tony

Karen Brave

August 29, 2013

Mom,
You were my world,and my best friend! You will always keep a special place in my heart only for you and I will cherish the wonderful memories we had together. It is not good-bye, just so long for now and we will be together again. I Love You !

Donna Wolfe

August 27, 2013

Rest well dear Dora. You were such an amazing lady and so very loved. Our world has lost a vibrant, loving, intelligent, nurturing person. Always and forever in our hearts. Amore...

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