Anthony D. Branca Jr.

Anthony (A.J.) Domenic Branca, Jr., of Orangeburg, NY, passed away into God's hands with his loving parents by his side at Maria Fareri Children's Hospital in Valhalla, NY on January 14, 2011. A.J. was born on June 11, 1999 to Anthony and Donna (Nardiello) Branca and has two wonderful siblings, John and Julia Branca. A.J. was a special angel that God gave to us and we cherished every day we had with him. He had an infectious smile that would light up the room and was an extremely social and loving child. A.J. never gave up in spite of his challenges. His determination and courage will remain an inspiration to us all. In addition to his parents and siblings, A.J. is survived by his loving grandmother, Jerri Branca of Hammonton, NJ, his grandfather, Richard Nardiello of Delray Beach, FL, his loving aunts (Ganeene O'Brien, Desiree Cinotti and Deb Fealey), uncles (Billy Branca, Mark Cinotti and James Fealey), and first cousins (Angela O'Brien, Jospeh O'Brien and Mark A. Cinotti). A.J. is predeceased by his cherished Gramie, Pauline Nardiello in 2008 and his Nana, Grace Rodolfi in 1999. A.J. also had a second home at The Center for Discovery in Harris, NY, where he was treated with kindness and love, and will be missed greatly. Visitation will be held on Monday, January 17, from 2 - 4 PM and 7 - 9 PM at Higgins Funeral Home, 321 S. Main St., New City. A Funeral Mass will take place at St. Catharine's Church, 523 Western Highway, Blauvelt, on Tuesday, January 18 at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in memory of A.J. Branca, to The Center for Discovery, PO Box 840, Benmosche Road, Harris, NY 12742.