Rose Theresa Borzone

Rose Theresa Borzone (nee Cioffi), 92, of Manchester, NJ, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose warmth and kindness touched all who knew her.

Born on February 7, 1933, to Buonofacio and Domenica Cioffi, Italian immigrants who arrived at Ellis Island, Rose grew up in the Bronx alongside her six siblings. From an early age, she carried with her a spirit of grace, compassion, and generosity that would define her life.

Rose was introduced to the love of her life, Rocco Borzone, by her future brother-in-law, Eugene Barto. The two married and shared 62 wonderful years together until Rocco's passing in 2017. They built their home and raised their four children in Emerson, NJ, where Rose became an active member of the community. A talented and competitive tennis player well into her 80s, she also helped run the Emerson Summer Recreation Program alongside her dear friend and neighbor, Ruth Rausa.

In their later years, Rose and Rocco retired to Manchester, NJ, embracing a new chapter filled with friendship and family.

To know Rose was to love her. She had a rare gift for making everyone feel welcome, heard, and valued. A natural listener with a genuine heart, she was a trusted friend and confidant to many. Her family was the center of her world-her children, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandsons brought her endless pride and joy. She delighted in their accomplishments, whether in music, theater, sports, teaching, or their careers, and celebrated each with enthusiasm and love. Her great-grandsons knew her fondly as their special "Gigi."

Rose's devotion extended to her husband during his long battle with Alzheimer's, caring for him with extraordinary patience, tenderness, and grace.

Family gatherings were among her greatest joys by sharing walks, playing cards and games, and laughing around the table with those she loved most. In recent years, she lived peacefully at her daughter's home in Lake Ariel, PA, surrounded by family and comfort.

Rose was predeceased by her beloved husband, Rocco, and her sisters, Madeline Borrelli and Mary Barto. She is survived by her children Robert (Sharon) Borzone, Richard (Geri) Borzone, Maryanne (Mark) Davick, and Ray (Maureen) Borzone; her cherished grandchildren Jessica (Justin) Laurino, Michelle (Mark) Farrell, Caitlyn (Cody) Smith, Zachary Borzone, Natalie (John) Roca, Rachel Borzone, Erica Borzone, and Fiona Borzone; and her adored great-grandsons Caleb and James Laurino. She is also survived by her brother Dom Cioffi, sisters Toni Esposito, Ann Clemenza, and Connie (Joe) Mikula, as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Rose was a shining example of love, faith, and family. Her gentle presence and joyful spirit will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched.