May Ponticello

May Ponticello, born January 2, 1934 in Jersey City, New Jersey, passed away at her home in Murrieta, California on May 17, 2014, while surrounded by family. Daughter of Walter and Anastasia Zuck, and sister to brothers Constantine and John, May lived the first 65 years of her life in Bayonne, New Jersey.

She shared nearly 50 years of wedded bliss with her beloved husband Frank, who passed away in 2003. Together they had 3 children, with family being the centerpiece of May's life. May was a homemaker extraordinaire, attending all of the children's various sporting events, operating as a den mother for cub scouts, and serving as PTA President. She did everything possible to focus her family on the importance of education and instilling the core values of honesty, selflessness and striving to be the very best at whatever path chosen. May was the biggest cheerleader and positive force for her family. She was ever present in the lives of her children and their neighborhood, with the Ponticello house often serving as the neighborhood landing spot. May's family often referred to her lovingly as the food pusher, for her wont of making sure everyone was always comfortable and satisfied. Her big heart and unconditional love was recognized by all of May's family and friends. She was truly an inspiration to her family and friends.

May returned to the workforce at age 40 at the Military Ocean Terminal in Bayonne, which career spanned over 20 years. She progressed to the upper civilian levels of responsibility as a mobilization planner, including logistical planning for Operation Desert Storm.

May and Frank made the bold move in retirement to relocate to California in 1999, after living their entire lives in Bayonne. She greatly enjoyed her life in Murrieta, with her friends and various social and bridge groups. May was an avid reader, enjoyed theater, museums and especially gardening, designing eclectic mixes of plants and flowers. She was also well traveled, with trips to Europe, South America, Africa, Canada, Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico and other spots throughout the United States. May lived a full life of family, friends and love.

May was the hub of the family and bright spot for her many friends, both in New Jersey and on the west coast, and will be deeply missed. She is survived by her loving family, including son and daughter in law Frank and Elaine Ponticello, granddaughters Amy and Abby of Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, daughter and son in law Stacey and Richard Rosser and granddaughter Ali of Pacific Palisades, and son and daughter in law Barry and Margot Ponticello and granddaughter Samantha of La Jolla.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers that donations be made in May Ponticello's name to either Reading is Fundamental (www.rif.org) or the Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org) charities, which can be done online.