Veronica LaBrunda

Veronica Cecilia LaBrunda died at home in Toms River, New Jersey on October 22, 2019 from lung cancer, after a long illness.She was devoted to her children and grandchildren, always putting them before herself. As children, her sons, Chris and Alex, never went to sleep without her reading them a bedtime story. She was deeply involved in her children's education, and instilled in them a lifelong love of learning. She made them Easter baskets every year, even once they were adults, complete with chocolate bunnies.Generosity and kindness were driving factors in her life: she baked countless trays of Christmas cookies each year for relatives and friends, cared for her father-in-law until his death at 102 years old, and kept in touch with many far-flung family and friends. She gathered friends throughout her life: during her childhood in Middlesex, New Jersey, her college years at Middlesex County College, and her adulthood in Liberty Corner, New Jersey. Veronica loved her daily walks, growing flowers, and The Ellen DeGeneres Show.Her joy at becoming a grandmother was equaled only by her joy spoiling her grandchildren. Every visit was an excuse for a present, and even during her last illness, she was picking out the perfect toy for her eldest granddaughter's birthday.She was born Veronica Cecilia Thalhammer on February 23, 1953 at Somerville Hospital in Somerville, New Jersey. She is predeceased by her parents, Joseph Thalhammer and Veronica Cecilia Zimmer, as well as by her older brother, Joseph Thalhammer, Junior. She is survived by her husband, Louis LaBrunda; her son Christopher LaBrunda and daughter-in-law Jenny Rappaport; her son Alexander LaBrunda; her grandchildren, Cora, Milo, and Ruby LaBrunda; her sister and brother-in-law Ann and John Stig; her brother and sister-in-law David and Cheryl Thalhammer; and many nieces and nephews.Her family is extremely grateful for all the help and care of the Visiting Nurse Association Health Group of Toms River and wish that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to them. Their web site is: www.vnahg.org.Arrangements were entrusted to Horizon Funeral & Cremation Services, 1329 Route 37 W, Toms River, NJ 08755.