Barbara DeStefano

Barbara DeStefano (nee Perrella), 86 passed away peacefully on October 8, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on March 5, 1939, in Orange, New Jersey, Barbara lived a rich, vibrant life filled with beauty, laughter, and love. In 1970, she moved to Roseland before ultimately settling in Mantoloking in 1990 with her beloved husband, where together they made a warm and welcoming home near the Jersey Shore she so dearly loved.

Barbara was the very heart of her family — a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who brought grace and joy to every role she played. Known affectionately as “GGB” (Great Grandma Barbara), she had a special bond with her great-grandchildren, who adored her radiant smile, gentle spirit, and ever-present twinkle in her eye.

Barbara’s beauty was timeless — not only in her elegant presence, but in her warmth, wit, and generosity. With impeccable style and a natural charm that lit up every room she entered, she made people feel instantly at ease. She carried herself with class and kindness, blending quiet strength with a lively sense of humor. To know Barbara was to love her — she was, as many would say, “small but mighty,” and left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of crossing her path.

Family gatherings, holidays, and summer days were among her happiest moments. Her love for her family was unwavering and complete.

Barbara is survived by her loving husband of 70 years, Joseph P. DeStefano, with whom she shared a remarkable life built on love, resilience, and shared dreams. She also leaves behind her devoted daughter, Lisa Cross, and her husband Gary; her brothers, Vincent and Ernest Perrella; and her grandchildren: Gary Jr. and his wife Dana, Michael and his wife Melissa, and Andrew and his wife Sarah. She was the proud great-grandmother of Michael R., Julianna, John, James, Sloan, Dominic, and Greer, all of whom brought her endless joy.

She is reunited in peace with her loving son, Joseph V. DeStefano, whom she carried in her heart every day.

Barbara’s presence, as well as her famous love knot cookies, will be profoundly missed — by her family, her many dear friends, and all those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her memory will live on in the stories we share, the traditions she began, and the love she gave so freely.

Visitation will be held at Galante Funeral Home, 54 Roseland Ave, Caldwell, on Tuesday, October 14, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, 28 Livingston Ave, Roseland, on Wednesday, October 15, at 10:30 AM, followed by entombment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 225 Ridgedale Ave, East Hanover.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Barbara's honor to St Jude Children's Research Hospital.