Giovanna DePaola

With deep love and profound sadness, the family of Giovanna DePaola announces her peaceful passing. A cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt, Giovanna lived a life defined by devotion to her family, generosity of spirit, deep faith, and unwavering strength.

Born in Andretta, Italy, Giovanna was the beloved daughter of Rocco Antonio Miele and Maria Antonietta Miele, and the loving sister of Giuseppe, Angelina, and Lolanda. She shared a special bond with her cherished niece, Raffaella Tore, whom she loved dearly. Her early life in Italy shaped the warmth, resilience, and strong family values that guided her throughout her life.

Giovanna was predeceased by her first husband, Pasquale Damiano, and later by her devoted husband of over 30 years, Rocco DePaola, with whom she built a beautiful life grounded in love, warmth, support, and tradition.

She leaves behind her adoring children: Michael (Rosemarie) Damiano; Nick (Maria) Damiano; Maria (Carmen) Sacca; Alex (Carol) Damiano; and Angelo (Margaret) Damiano. Giovanna was also the proud grandmother of 11 grandchildren and the joyful great-grandmother of 18 great-grandchildren, all of whom were her greatest pride.

A woman of extraordinary kindness, Giovanna lived a deeply faith-based life, guided by prayer, gratitude, and trust in God. Her faith was the foundation of her strength and the source of the love she poured into everyone around her.

She adored spending time in her cherished garden, tending to her many trees—figs and persimmons—along with her flourishing vegetable garden. She had a special gift for nurturing all living things, including her beautiful plants and beloved rose bushes, which she cared for with patience and pride. Her garden was her sanctuary, reflecting her nurturing spirit.

Above all, Giovanna loved her family deeply and unconditionally. Her presence was a blessing, her guidance steady, and her love everlasting. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her generosity, her faith, and the legacy of love she leaves behind.

Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A visitation will be held at Krowicki McCracken Funeral Home, located at 2124 East Saint Georges Ave, Linden, on Monday, November 24, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a funeral on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, 9:00 am from the funeral home.

Funeral mass will take place at St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church, Elizabeth at 10:00 am.

Entombemnt Rosedale Cemetery, Linden.