Larry Samuel Mele Sr.

Larry, a Vietnam veteran and devoted family man, passed away with his family by his side on February 21, 2025. Born with a heart full of humor, Larry’s spirited and feisty nature brought warmth and laughter to everyone who knew him.

Above all else, Larry was a great provider and a dedicated family man. He worked tirelessly to ensure his children and grandchildren were always cared for, offering not just material support but wisdom, kindness, and unwavering love. Larry took immense pride in creating a home filled with cherished memories.

A lifelong lover of the outdoors, Larry spent his spare time crabbing, fishing, and tending to his garden. His passion for nature was matched only by his enthusiasm for his Yankees, Jets, Rangers and Knicks. Whether cheering from the sidelines of his grandkids games or debating which washer was closest to the box, his fun competitive nature was a defining trait that brought friends and family together.

He is remembered not only by his hobbies and his interests but for the small moments that made him so special. From his impromptu whistling to his quick-witted wise cracks, Larry left a legacy of one liners that will never be forgotten.

Larry is predeceased by his parents Anthony and Frances Mele. He is survived by his loving wife Annette Mele; his four children, Larry Mele Jr. and his wife Jessie, John Cora and his wife Jeanne, Melissa Collins and her husband Brian, Jennifer Rathyen and her husband Jimmy; six grandchildren, Ariana Wilson and her husband Ryan, Jaclyn Lussier and her husband Zachary, Caitlyn and her fiancé Corey Cathey, Gianna, Desmond, and Zoey; four great grandchildren, Nolan, Oliver, Owen, and Gavin; Brothers, Michael Mele, Robert Mele and his wife Judy.

Visiting hours will be held on Saturday March 1, 2025 from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home 26 Mule Road Toms River, NJ 08755 where a celebration of his life service will begin at 6:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Fisher House Foundation or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital so that Larry’s legacy and love for life may continue to inspire others.

Larry’s memory will live on in every story shared, every laugh echoed, and every cherished moment spent with those he loved. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

If you would like to share your memories or express condolences, please feel free to reach out to the family by visiting www.quinn-hoppingfh.com.