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With heartfelt sorrow, we announce the passing of Gloria Joan Melchionda (nee Penner), who peacefully departed this life on May 16, 2025, embraced by the love of her family.
Born to Helmuth and Gertrude Penner in Hoboken, New Jersey, Gloria was a proud graduate of A.J. Demarest High School.
Her life was made complete when she married her beloved Joseph Michael Melchionda, also of Hoboken. Their devoted partnership spanned 45 years until Joseph's passing.
Gloria's legacy lives on through her children, Robert, with his wife Patricia, and Tracey, with her husband Robert Lowcher), and her cherished grandchildren: Matthew and Thomas Melchionda; Ryan Lowcher and his wife Kristin, Christopher, and his wife Margaret, and Megan Lowcher-Prescott, and her husband Blake Prescott. She was also blessed with a great-grandson, Jameson Prescott.
For 31 dedicated years, Gloria was a valued employee of Pfizer, Inc., where she supervised the Mail Department and Shipping Office within the consumer products division in Parsippany, New Jersey.
Inheriting a talent for crafting from her mother, Gloria was an accomplished knitter, crocheter, and quilter. Her beautiful creations were lovingly shared with family and dear friends, leaving behind treasured keepsakes lovingly tagged as “Made with LOVE by Nana”.
As an active member of the Moose Stitchers Quilting Guild, Gloria generously donated her handiwork to support veterans and those facing hardship.
Beyond her creative pursuits, Gloria was a spirited card player, renowned for her sharp wit and infectious sense of humor. Whether playing canasta with the ladies friends, at Harvest Years, or around her own table, her lively presence made every game memorable. This quintessential "Jersey Girl" possessed a unique charm that endeared her to all who knew her. Her vibrant spirit and loving heart will be deeply missed by the countless lives she touched.
Mass of Christian Burial will be offered 10:00 AM Thursday, May 22, 2025 at The Church of the Holy Cross, 631 S. State St., Dover, DE. Visitation will be held 4PM to 6PM Wednesday May 21st at the Funeral Home of Michael J Ambruso, 1175 S. State St., Dover, DE. Interment will be private at a later date in Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear, DE. Condolences may be shared via www.ambruso.com.
