Marlene Dorothy DiGioia's Obituary
Marlene Dorothy DiGioia, 84, peacefully departed her family and went to be with the Lord on February 25, 2024. Marlene loved to be called “Momeesh” by her grandchildren and many others.
Marlene was born on Sept 6,1939, to her parents Alfred and Mary Ruff in Philadelphia, PA. Above all else, she valued her relationship with God and her deep faith guided her life’s journey. She was the mother to her two sons, David and Stephen, to whom she devoted her life. She loved her daughter-in-laws Nancy and Ann. Her grandchildren Anthony, Sophia, Sarah, and Grace were the best gift the world gave her, and she poured all of her love into each of them. She was also a special “Aunt Marlene” and “Aunt Marnie” to her nieces and nephews. Marlene had many friendships at every stage of life, and she connected deeply with those close to her. To family and friends, she gave the “gift of time” and was known for being fully present and intentional with her relationships.
Marlene spent the first 60 years of her life in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. She made lasting relationships everywhere she lived and was deeply involved in church life at each stop along the way. Marlene graduated from Roxborough High School in 1957 and went on to get a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from West Chester University in 1961. She worked at the US Post Office, department stores, and as a waitress to put herself through college. Marlene continued her schooling at Temple University from 1962-1964, taking classes toward a Master's in education.
She married Tony DiGioia in 1962, and they raised their sons in Ambler, PA, Blue Bell, PA, Sparta, NJ, and Medford Lakes, NJ. Marlene was a third grade teacher until having her children when she dedicated herself to raising her family. Marlene led a life of service. She taught both children’s Sunday school classes as well as adult church education. She also provided private tutoring for at-risk children in the school district. She was proud of her achievement of creating and leading a program she named a “Mission of Caring” as an outreach in the community for those in need. Marlene was a Deacon at First Presbyterian Church of Sparta and served as a Trustee at the Cathedral of the Woods in Medford Lakes. She served in a Pastoral Care program that centered around hospital chaplaincy work. There was a several-year period during Marlene’s life where she was the primary caregiver to her mother.
Ocean City, NJ was a special place for Marlene. During her college summers, she worked as a waitress at Sims restaurant on the famed OC Boardwalk. She returned with her family to spend many full summers. A highlight was the “Night In Venice” parties the family hosted that brought friends and family from all over to enjoy. Marlene also attended the Ocean City Tabernacle Church which was a special place to her.
In 1999, Marlene relocated to Lake Norman, NC to be closer to family. She became a member of Davidson United Methodist Church where she served as a Stephen Minister. This was a clear calling from God for her to serve others and she cherished this experience. She also served the church in what she called her “hospital ministry.” She would contact church members after hospitalizations and pray with them for their recovery. Her Bible Study group was another important part of her life, and she will always be remembered for her Epiphany “stars” and her insightful wisdom.
A highlight adventure of Marlene’s life was a mission trip she took to Nepal where they trekked and served in remote villages. Marlene also had many hobbies. She enjoyed gourmet cooking, gardening, and boating with her family. Those close to Marlene always associated her with birds and shells. As a young girl she loved her time with her father who collected birds. This sparked a connection and throughout her life there were many important events that were impacted by birds. Her annual party for the birds with her grandchildren held a special place in her heart. Marlene was also an avid sheller. She loved walking the beaches and hand-picking shells. Marlene loved sunsets and God’s painting of the sky. She taught people to be patient and enjoy the moment. Marlene’s true gift was writing and she especially loved creative writing and poetry. She would write beautiful and thoughtful notes and always found the perfect card to send to a special person. She shared her faith as well as wisdom, love, and support through her writing and it reached and touched many.
Marlene’s motto was “Be ye kind”. She lived her life as a compassionate and kind person to all. She prayed deeply and her relationship with God was special. Marlene loved God, her family, and her friends. She will be dearly missed.
Marlene is preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Mary Ruff; brother, Alfred Ruff; sister, Lois Cavanaugh; and the father of her sons, Tony DiGioia. Marlene is survived by her sons, David (Nancy) and Stephen (Ann); and her grandchildren, Anthony and Sophia DiGioia, Sarah DiGioia Ulrich (Andrew), and Grace DiGioia (fiancé Sam Stevens). She also leaves behind brother-in-law, James Cavanaugh; sister-in-laws, Marie Chesnutt and Betty Ruff; and loving nieces, nephews and many others she has touched over the years.
A funeral service will be held at Davidson United Methodist Church at 2:00 pm on Sunday, March 24, located at 233 S Main St, Davidson, NC 28036. A celebration will be held in the Fellowship Hall following the service. Flowers for the service can be sent to James Funeral home and will be delivered to the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Davidson United Methodist Church.
James Funeral Home, of Huntersville, is serving the family and obituary lovingly written by the family.
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