Mary K. Lavitola, age 92, passed away on Sunday, September 29, 2019 at Ocean Medical Center in Brick. Born and raised in Jersey City, Mary lived in East Orange from 1948-1991 and Springfield until 2010 before most recently moving to Point Pleasant with her daughter.
Mrs. Lavitola worked for 50 years as a secretary at St. Joseph School in East Orange where she was the heart of the school community. She was an active volunteer at St. Joseph Church as well. Mary was sweet, kind, and generous, always using her time and energy to help others. She graced everyone with her smile and gentleness. She was truly an angel on earth. Mary shared a wonderful life with her beloved husband, Gus. They are together again for eternity.
She is predeceased by her beloved husband, Gus Lavitola in 2005; brother, Anthony Markey; and by her son-in-law, O.A. “Al” Kopet, M.D.
Surviving are her loving children, Linda Kopet, Alan Lavitola and his wife, Marilyn her sister, Margaret Gallo and her beloved dog, Rocky and extended family members; as well as her many dear friends, especially, Jocelyn and John Farley.
Viewing will be held on Sunday, October 6, 2019 from 2-6 p.m. with a service being held at 5:00 p.m. at O’Brien Funeral Home, 505 Burnt Tavern Rd., Brick. A graveside service will be held on Monday, October 7th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Vincent Cemetery, Madison.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her memory to St. Joseph School, 115 Telford Street, East Orange, NJ 07018 or East Orange Catholic High School (EOCH) Alumnae Association PO Box 4366, Brick NJ 08723.