Jennifer Ann Barreca

Jennifer was born on October 31, 1972, in New Jersey, daughter of Joseph Stallone and Helen Nycz Stallone. A graduate of Penn State University, and their biggest fan, Jennifer earned her bachelor’s in education and taught Special Education for many years. She managed KinderCare daycare centers where she developed a deep passion for working with children. She became an outspoken advocate for the needs and well-being of others, always fighting for both children and their families. In 2019, Jennifer and her husband moved to North Carolina, where she found joy in spending time at the beach and birdwatching. Her love for children and creativity extended to her hobbies, which included painting stones and placing them along her front walkway for neighborhood children to enjoy, and making ceramics. She enjoyed traveling with her family and friends, especially cruising to the Caribbean. In recent years, Jennifer found fulfillment in tutoring children, both online and in-person. Jennifer had a heart of gold and will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.

In addition to her parents Joseph and Helen Stallone of Austin, Texas, survivors include her husband John Barreca of Shallotte; four children, Madison Karabinus of Glen Allen, Virginia, Cole Karabinus of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Jack Barreca of Chicago, Illinois, and Blake Barreca of Round Lake, Illinois; one brother, Joseph Stallone of Austin, Texas; her three faithful canine companions, Baxter, Gizmo, and Auggie; and Helen the rabbit.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

If so inclined, please consider donating to the SECU Family House at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which was a valuable resource to the family, https://www.secufamilyhouse.org/donate, or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, https://www.stjude.org/donate.

Online condolences may be made at www.shallottefunerals.com

White Funeral and Cremation Service, Shallotte Chapel