Josephine M. Mongiello's Obituary
Josephine M. Mongiello, 87, of Marlton, NJ passed away on August 7, 2021.
Born in Newark, NJ, Jo resided in Cedar Grove and Brigantine NJ before moving to Smithville and then Marlton, NJ. She graduated from Central High School in Newark.
Jo had a passion for politics which started in the early 1970s when she was selected to head an advance team when President and Mrs. Ford visited NJ. She joined a grassroots movement, United Taxpayers of NJ, aimed at providing citizens with a strong voice in state government. She successfully ran for town council in Cedar Grove where she served 5 years including one year as Mayor. She was the impetus behind several key projects including supplying the police with bullet proof vests, and pushing forward cooperative purchasing agreements with other municipalities at a time when such strategies were not a common practice. She later served her town as a member of its planning, zoning and recreational boards.
After moving to Brigantine, Jo continued to pursue her passion by serving as President of the Fourth Ward Residents Association, Vice Chair of the Republican Club and Commissioner of the Cultural Arts Committee. When she retired to Smithville, well into her 70s, she served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the homeowners association and pool committee, once again serving her constituents and being the voice of the people.
She earned her paralegal certification and worked many years in the insurance business and in the legal department at Harrah’s Atlantic City. In addition, Jo worked alongside her husband in their family-owned business for 25 years.
In her younger years Jo loved to travel with her family and was always planning that “next fantastic adventure.” She learned to ski at 40, enjoying the slopes of Colorado, Vermont, and Italy.
Jo will always be remembered by her family as the go-to person for advice, a hug, or as that special someone that would just listen and love you no matter what. She had a way of making everyone she met feel special, loved and important. Always generous with her time and affection.
She was predeceased by her parents Mary (Gonnella) and Americo (Matty) Santambrogio, her sister Constance Brown and her husband of 47 years Patrick Mongiello.
Surviving are her beloved daughter Kathryn Smith, son-in-law Bob, grandchildren Katherine and Robert and brother Michael Santambrogio. Also surviving are many cousins, extended relatives and friends, especially her lifelong friend, Dee Kirk.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Samaritan Hospice at www.SamaritanNJ.org Services will be held on Wednesday August 18, 2021 at St. Joan of Arc Church in Marlton. Visitation at 10:30 AM, followed by Mass at 11 AM. Interment immediately following at Jesus Bread of Life Cemetery, Mount Laurel, NJ.
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