Obituary of Claudia Mary Fontanella

With profound sadness and deep love, we announce the passing of Claudia Mary Fontanella, who left this world peacefully on August 21, 2025, at the age of 86, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on February 19, 1939, in New York City to Arturo and Filomena Tesi, Claudia grew up in the heart of the city she always held dear. After graduating high school, she began working at a bank in Manhattan, where fate brought her to meet the love of her life, Louis Fontanella. Their romance blossomed and led to a life rich with love, laughter, and lasting memories.

Claudia and Louis eventually settled in Rockaway, New Jersey, where they raised their family and built a warm, welcoming home. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Claudia's life revolved around her family, whom she cherished above all else. She found immense joy in spending time with her children and was especially delighted when she became a grandmother.

A woman of deep faith, Claudia was a longtime parishioner of St. Cecilia Parish, where she sang in the choir for over 35 years. Her strong Catholic faith was the foundation of her life.

Claudia had a passion for singing and at one time aspired to be a professional singer. She also expressed her creativity through arts and crafts, particularly ceramics. She had a talent for creating Christmas ornaments and other home decorations. Christmas was her favorite time of year, and she poured her heart into making the holiday magical—adorning trees with handmade ornaments and filling her home with warmth and joy. The Christmas Eve celebration at her home was always a special gathering.

In retirement, Claudia and Louis spent years traveling. Alongside a close-knit group of lifelong friends affectionately known as “The Gang,” they explored the world together, creating memories that will live on in the stories they shared.

Though her passing leaves a void in our hearts, we take comfort in knowing Claudia is now at peace, reunited with those who went before her, and singing among the angels. Her legacy of love, faith, music, and family will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Claudia is survived by her beloved husband Louis Fontanella, her sister, Aurora Ingrassia, her cherished children, Louis Fontanella, Jr. and Chris Fontanella, Chris’s spouse Stacey Fontanella, her adored grandchildren, Geena Fontanella, Ashlie Barahona, Brandon Fontanella, Alexandra Fontanella, Christopher Fontanella, her great grandchildren, Alessandra & Ezekiel, as well as a wealth of friends who will remember her fondly. She will be missed beyond measure and remembered always.

If you would like to contribute to Claudia’s memory in your own way, please consider making a charitable contribution to the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Memorial Donations can be made via inmemof.org.

Hours of public visitation for Claudia will be held on Tuesday, September 2, from 3 to 6 PM at Norman Dean Home for Services, with a memory sharing service beginning at 5 PM. A funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, September 3, at 10 AM at St. Cecilia Church of Rockaway, followed by an interment service at Gate of Heaven Mausoleum immediately after.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.” –Matthew 25:23