Obituary of Maria G. Ferrara

Beloved wife and mother, Maria Ferrara (nee Smith) of Lebanon NJ, passed away peacefully in her home, on September 10, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Maria was born on August 22, 1958, in Newark NJ, to Edward and Johanna Smith (Fortino). She was the eldest sister and maintained a lifelong close relationship with her sister Carol Stockl (Smith) and her brother Edward Smith.

Maria was a 1976 graduate of Hillside High school. She will be remembered fondly by her many close friends who she cherished throughout the years.

Maria married her devoted husband, Frank Ferrara on October 29, 1994. They have remained faithfully devoted to each other for almost 30 years. Their commitment to one another is an inspiration to all. 

Throughout her life she was known for her tender nature and generosity towards those around her. She was a loving and caring mother to her daughter Johanna Ferrara. Her “mothering nature” carried over to include her nieces and nephews. Maria shared a very special bond with her honorary “baby” Luke. Although she didn’t yet have any grandchildren of her own, she treated each of her great nieces and nephews as tenderly as a grandmother would. 

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Frank, her daughter Johanna, her sister Carol (Bob), her brother Eddie (Lisa), and her many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Her capacity for love was limitless. Maria was known for her kindness and her silly nature. 

The Ferrara family invites the community to join them in paying their respects during the visitation on Monday, September 16, 2024, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Martin Funeral Home, located at 1761 Route 31 Clinton, NJ 08809. Relatives and friends may gather prior to the funeral mass on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, from 9:00 until 9:30AM at the funeral home. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Tuesday, September 17^th at 10:00AM at Immaculate Conception Church, located at 316 Old Allerton Rd Annandale, NJ 08801.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made in Maria’s memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Please Click Here to Donate or Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Please Click Here to Donate.

May Maria be remembered for the joy and smiles she brought to all she encountered. May she rest in everlasting peace.