Maria Rose Harrell, (nee Gonnella), 66, of Mullica Hill, NJ, formerly of South Philadelphia, died peacefully at home on August 16, 2016 after gracefully battling cancer.
She was born to the late Fred Gonnella and Florence (Gulino) Gonnella in South Philadelphia on September 26, 1949.
She was a devoted wife and mother whose pride and joy were her grandchildren.
Maria will be sadly missed by her husband, James; her daughter Christina (Sal) Triolo, Stepchildren Steve (Brianna) Harrell, Lisa (Shane) Sieber; Grandchildren Salvatore, Christopher, Dominic and Van; Siblings Carlo Gonnella, and Frank (Rosalie) Gonnella, and her nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to her visitation Wed., August 24, 2016 from 10-11 am at St. Clare of Assisi Parish, St. Joseph Church, 140 Broad St., Swedesboro, NJ, where Maria's Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 am.
She will be laid to rest in SS Peter and Paul Cemetery. Springfield, PA.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org
Time?! Does it heal or does it just dull the brain in order to cope with the neverending sadness of missing them?
Know that they loved us. Know that we had the privilege of having them as our mothers. Do our best to mimic their legacies.
With love and sending hugs to you on your mother's anniversary.
Antoinette DiPaula
You came into my life, Christina, only last year, but it was one of the best days of my life. As for your mom, when I was a little girl, I thought your mom was Natalie Wood - in terms of beauty, poise and everything that goes with being a star. I was in awe of her. I am sure you are the light of her entire being and now she is your light and your family's light to protect all of you every second of every day. Love you and may God continue to bless the beautiful person you are and I know your mom will let you know she's okay and happy. She'll send you signs from above. xoxoxox
to Maria. She was my best friend for 56 years. Our spirits were interconnected.
She was a precious gift to me and to so many whom
she loved. Her playfulness, humor, strength, courage,
beauty and love will live on in all those whose lives she touched.
I will miss her greatly but feel most blessed to have had her in
my life for so long a time. She will still remain my best friend
forever. Prayers that we all feel God's loving presence and comfort.
Janet and the Colaianni family
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Time?! Does it heal or does it just dull the brain in order to cope with the neverending sadness of missing them?
Know that they loved us. Know that we had the privilege of having them as our mothers. Do our best to mimic their legacies.
With love and sending hugs to you on your mother's anniversary.
Antoinette DiPaula


