Obituary of Wanda Modica

Wanda Modica, 82, of Ledgewood, NJ, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024, at the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice in Fredon Township, NJ. Born and raised in Teaneck, NJ, Wanda lived in Newark and Bloomfield before making her home in Ledgewood for the past 25 years.

Wanda dedicated her life to her family and her career. She began her working years as a teacher’s aide, bringing warmth and encouragement to countless students. Later, she found her calling in the Fleet Management Division of the Essex County Department of Public Works, where she served with diligence and pride until her retirement in 1998. 

Known for her vibrant spirit, Wanda had a zest for life that was reflected in her many passions. She was an avid fan of the New Jersey Lottery—especially scratch-offs—and enjoyed trips to the casino, where she loved the thrill of the games. Dancing was one of her greatest joys, and she looked forward to Saturday nights spent with her beloved dance group. 

Above all, Wanda was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She was predeceased by her cherished husband of 39 years, Santo Nicholas Modica Jr., in 1999. Wanda leaves behind a legacy of love through her family: her daughter Tricia DiMatteo and her husband Liberto of Ledgewood, NJ; her son Santo N. Modica III and his wife Anna of Nutley, NJ; her adored grandchildren, Liberto Jr. and his wife Christie DiMatteo of Denville, Gianna and her husband Vincent Fullman of Byram,  Alfonso DiMatteo of Ledgewood, Giavanna Modica of Nutley, Danielle Sasso of Nutley, John Sasso and his finance Yasmeen also of Nutley;  and her treasured great-grandchildren, Dominique and Liberto DiMatteo III, and Arya and Jonathon Sasso. She is also survived by her sisters, Sarah Vialonga of Nevada and Gayle Klimach of Italy. 

Wanda’s family invites relatives and friends to celebrate her life at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville, NJ, on Thursday, December 19, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s Church, 15 Myers Avenue, Denville, NJ, followed by interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover, NJ.

Memorial donations can be made  in Wanda’s memory to the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice  

https://karenannquinlanhospice.org/home-for-hospice/.

Wanda’s boundless love and spirited personality will forever remain in the hearts of her family and all who were blessed to know her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.