Carmela Regina Barthine

Born in Jersey City, NJ, to Ralph Petagna Sr. and Marie (Romo) Petagna, Carmela grew up helping in her family’s florist shop, St. Jude Florist, before beginning her career as a secretary at Metropolitan Life Insurance Company and later working as a bookkeeper for various companies.

She married Dennis Roger Barthine on January 17, 1954, and together they raised their children, Ralph and Regina, in Old Bridge, NJ. Carmela was active in her community as a member of the PTA, the Mid-Madison Women’s Club, and her local parish, where she generously shared her time and talents. Above all, she dedicated her life to caring for her family, her greatest joy.

Carmela is survived by her children, Ralph Barthine (Michele Weiss) and Regina Barthine (Chris Hazell); grandchildren Christina Kassop (Dr. David Kassop), Michelle Harris (Dale Harris), and Dr. Mary Barrett Brown (Matthew Brown); and great-grandchildren, Cora, Philip, and Adam Kassop, and Archer Harris. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Dennis, her parents, and her brothers Emil and Ralph Jr.

She will be remembered for her giving heart, love of family, and joy in life’s simple pleasures — crocheting, playing mahjong, reading, and sharing time with friends and loved ones.

A burial service will be announced at a later date.