Gemma Olliges

Gemma was born in the Bronx, grew up in Palisades Park, resided briefly in Fairfield, but spent the last 50+ years in Twp of Washington, NJ, where she was a great neighbor and friend to all. She is survived by her husband of 57 years William “Bill” Olliges, her brother Joseph Antonelli (Gerry Hoban), her daughter Doreen Olliges Ellinwood (Dave), her son Kevin Olliges (Kristen), and her granddaughter, Zoey Olliges.

To know Gemma was to love her. She believed deeply that if you didn’t have anything nice to say, to say nothing at all, so she always had a kind and encouraging word. Gemma will be remembered for her infectious laugh, her generous spirit, and her meatballs and sauce recipe.

She was the best daughter (to Jean and Louis Antonelli, who went before her), sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend anyone could hope for.

Gemma had been a lifelong smoker and even though she quit 20 years ago, it was too late to undo the damage. In lieu of donations, the family asks you to encourage someone to stop smoking.

The family will receive their relatives and friends on Saturday, November 12 from 2 to 6 pm at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood.