Christine Anne Kavanaugh

Christine Anne Kavanaugh (nee Sant'Ambrogio), affectionately known as “Chrissy,” age 73, passed away on October 20, 2025 in Union.

Chrissy was a cherished soul whose impact and warmth will forever resonate in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her. 

Born Christine Sant'Ambrogio, she took pride in being a graduate of East Orange Catholic High School and later, a proud alumnus of Catholic University of America. Chrissy dedicated her life to serving others, cherishing her role as a school counselor in the West Orange school district, from which she later retired.

Beloved by family and friends, Christine was the devoted mother of Matthew Adrian Kavanaugh, whose life she enriched with love and encouragement. She also leaves behind her cherished siblings: Paul Sant'Ambrogio, Katherine Roskam, Laura Greeley, and Mary Johnston, each of whom shared in the laughter, love, and memories that defined their family. Christine was preceded in death by her parents Henry and Anne Sant'Ambrogio, her loving husband Jack Kavanaugh, and dear sister, Judith Strong.

She was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, friend and co-worker. She will be remembered for her deeply held religious beliefs, bright intellect, humor, and devotion to her family. Chrissy was a beautiful person inside and out.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Chrissy's memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation for Christine on Thursday, October 23rd, from 2:00 - 4:00pm as well as 7:00 - 9:00pm at Galante Funeral Home located at 2800 Morris Avenue in Union.

A funeral mass will be held on Friday, October 24th, at 10:00am at St. James the Apostle Roman Catholic Church, located at 45 S Springfield Ave in Springfield.

Cremation will follow privately.

An inurnment/graveside service will be held for Christine the following week on Wednesday, October 29th, at 10:00am at Glendale Cemetery, located at 28 Hoover Ave in Bloomfield.