Joyce R. Milano

It is with heartbroken sorrow that we announce the passing of Joyce Milano of Emerson, NJ, who left this world peacefully at home on Friday, August 8, 2025, at the age of 80, surrounded by the family who never left her side.

Born to the late Mary and Alfred Tedesco, Joyce grew up in Union City before settling in Emerson to raise her family. Early in her career, she worked for the Social Security Administration, where she met the love of her life, Anthony. Their marriage would span more than 50 years, built on love, laughter, and deep devotion. While at Social Security, Joyce also formed friendships that she cherished and maintained throughout her life.

Her heart was always with her family. She was a proud mother to her daughters, Jenna and Krista, and a loving mother-in-law to Krista’s husband, Rob. Her greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was being “Grandma” to her beloved granddaughters, Ava Victoria and Nicolette Ryann, the cherished children of Krista and Rob, who were the light of her days and the source of her happiest moments.

Joyce’s giving spirit extended far beyond her home. For over 25 years, she worked part-time in the Emerson school system as both a lunch aide and secretary, becoming a familiar and friendly face to generations of students and staff. Her warmth and humor made her beloved by all who crossed her path.

Joyce was the life of the party-fun, funny, and always full of energy. She had a gift for making people smile and laugh, and was known for affectionately calling everyone a “doll.” She spread joy everywhere she went, leaving people feeling lighter, happier, and more cared for just by being in her presence.

She was also a selfless, simple, thoughtful, and sincere soul who always put the needs of others ahead of her own and found beauty in life’s everyday moments.

She will be forever remembered as the dear sister of Lawrence Tedesco and his wife, Carolyn; sister-in-law to Ralph Milano (the late Joan), Marie Duane (Ken), and Nancy Morgan (Dave); a devoted aunt to many nieces and nephews; and a consummate friend to countless others whose lives she touched.

Her legacy of love, kindness, joy, and unwavering care will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Becker Funeral Home in Westwood. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Church of the Assumption in Emerson, followed by burial at Westwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joyce’s name to Spence-Chapin, the adoption agency through which both Jenna and Krista were adopted, an organization that forever changed her life by making her dream of becoming a mother come true. Please visit spence-chapin.org.