Denise "Dee" Marie D'Elia

Denise Marie D’Elia, 58, passed away on Friday, October 9th, following a courageous and hard-fought battle with breast cancer. Although her time here was far too short, Denise lived a life filled with adventure, determination, laughter, and an immeasurable love for her family.

Born on November 20, 1967 in Lakewood, New Jersey, Denise spent her early childhood attending St. Mary’s Grade School and becoming part of the first graduating class of Holy Family School. Her family later moved to North Plainfield, where she spent the remainder of her childhood and graduated from North Plainfield High School with the Class of 1985. She continued her education at Fairleigh Dickinson University before embarking on a career that would take her on many adventures.

Denise began her professional journey in the restaurant and hospitality industry, bartending at TGI Fridays and taking advantage of a company program that allowed her to travel to different states to work at various TGI Fridays locations. Always ambitious and willing to explore new opportunities, she also earned her real estate license. Never one to shy away from an adventure, Denise eventually packed up and moved to Los Angeles, California. Once there, she continued bartending while exploring graphic design which led to various Hollywood stints in several LA Studios. Those years brought countless experiences and stories that she would fondly share for years to come.

After welcoming her beloved son, Zachary, Denise knew that being closer to her family was where she wanted to be. She returned to New Jersey and settled in Brick, where she began a new chapter in her life. She transitioned into the clinical research field, beginning her career at Celerion and later joining Clinilabs. Her dedication and drive eventually culminated in her advancement to a role in management followed by Clinical Research Specialist. Denise steadfastly and passionately continued her work for as long as she was able.

Denise was known by many names; Dee, Dee Dee, and (most affectionately) Deedlebug, the cherished nickname given to her by her father. No matter what you called her, one thing remained constant: Denise had a spirit and heart like no other. She was strong-willed, determined, and fiercely loyal to those she loved. She faced life's challenges with an extraordinary strength; throughout her battle with cancer, she fought with everything she had with grace and good humor. She was a fighter until the very end.

Above all else, Denise's greatest love was her son, Zachary. Her family was her heart and those closest to her will forever remember her fierce determination, spirit, strength, and the unwavering love she gave so freely.

Denise was predeceased by her beloved mother, Beth Benn, and her dear friend Lynn.

She leaves behind her beloved son, Zachary; her father, Thomas D’Elia, and stepmother, Ellen D’Elia; her stepfather, Vincent Benn; and her siblings, Kelly (Dave) Backle, Tommy (Kelly) D’Elia, Jacqueline Benn (Jacob) Porter, and Melissa (Marc) D’Elia-Warnick. She is also survived by her cherished nieces and nephews: her goddaughter, Sara; Sabrina; Sofia; Thomas; Chase; her godson, Lucas; Riley (Amanda); Chloe; Georgiana; and Amelia. In addition, her Aunt Nancy who was not only family, but a devoted daily caregiver to Denise.

Denise also leaves behind her beloved pets, Scooter and Perry; her dear friend Jerry; and a large extended family and many treasured friends whose lives were made brighter by having her in them.

Though Denise's passing leaves a tremendous void in the hearts of those who loved her, her memory will live on in the stories shared, the laughter remembered, and the love that will never fade. Her strength, her spirit, and her devotion to her family will remain with them always.

In keeping with Denise's wishes, her services will be a celebration of her life. Family and friends are invited to come as they are, with vibrant colors and/or her favorite color, purple. Casual attire is warmly welcomed.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 16 2026, from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm at D'Elia Funeral Home; 1300 Vermont Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701.

A prayer service will take place at 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

A Celebration of Life Luncheon and Repass will be held on Saturday, October 17 at 1pm at the Princeton Commons Clubhouse, Brick, NJ.