Stella Pena

Stella was born on September 11, 1946, in Cali, Colombia. She attended primary and secondary school at Santa Cecilia and later studied accounting and secretarial work at Santa Cecilia Technical School in Cali. After immigrating to the United States in 1973, she attended Essex County College in Newark, NJ to learn English.

Stella worked alongside her sister at Gloria's Travel Agency, where she served as a travel agent and helped manage the business. She was dedicated, dependable, and took great pride in her work. Her organizational skills, attention to detail, and strong work ethic earned the admiration and respect of those who knew her.

A naturally curious and creative person, Stella found joy in arts and crafts, especially flower arranging. She loved music and dancing, particularly salsa and traditional Colombian cumbia, which kept her connected to her Colombian heritage. She also had a passion for travel and treasured the many trips she shared with her sister, creating cherished memories as they explored new places together. One of her greatest joys was spending time at the beach where she found peace and happiness with her family.

Stella will be remembered as a woman of quiet strength who was serious in nature, yet deeply loving, caring, and unwaveringly loyal. She devoted herself to those she loved and was always there with kindness, support, and compassion. Her gentle heart, steadfast character, and enduring love will remain an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Stella leaves behind her beloved sister, Gloria I. DeMicco; her devoted companion and caregiver, Jose Torres, whose loving care and unwavering support brought her comfort throughout her later years; and many loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will forever cherish her memory.

Although our hearts are heavy with grief, we find comfort in knowing that Stella’s love, kindness, and beautiful spirit will live on in the lives she touched. She is and will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in our hearts.

May she rest in eternal peace.

Visitation will be held at KROWICKI MCCRACKEN FUNERAL HOME, 2124 East Saint George Ave, Linden, NJ 07036, US, on July 9, 2026, from 8:30 am to 10:30 am.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Immaculate Conception Church Elizabeth, NJ, 425 Union Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07208, US, on July 9, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Funeral services will be held at Rosedale Cemetery, 750 E Linden Ave, Linden, NJ 07036, US, on July 9, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm.