Carolyn "Dolly" Pepe

Carolyn Pepe, lovingly known as "Dolly", a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted friend, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on December 19, 1932, in Paterson, New Jersey to Angelo & Nancy (nee Bruno) Rusciano, Carolyn spent her life nurturing her family and enriching her community through her unwavering faith and dedication.

As a proud homemaker, Carolyn dedicated herself to her family, raising her children with love and imparting the values of compassion, kindness, and faith, alongside her beloved husband, the late Frank Pepe. She is survived by her cherished children: Fred Pepe, Connie & her husband Thomas Marchese, and Roseann & her husband Robert Pohida. Carolyn leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren: Frank & his wife Maria Pepe, Marissa & her husband Dave Jenkins, Mariel Pepe, Vincent & his wife Angela Marchese, Thomas & his wife Kate Marchese, Anthony & his wife Jacqueline Marchese, Robert Pohida & Niki, and Cara & her husband Nigel Herbert. She also rejoices in the lives of her great-grandchildren: Lily, Scarlett, Jake, Gianna, Austin, Vincent, Francesca, and Thomas, with the expectation of a soon-to-be great-grandchild, along with many beloved nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind her devoted aides, Steph Holder and Stephenie Daher, who loved and cared for her over the years. She is predeceased by two brothers, three sisters, her brother-in-law, and her dear sisters-in-law.

Carolyn was profoundly devoted to her faith, attending church daily and being an active member within her parishes, including St. George in Paterson, St. James in Totowa, and Our Lady of the Lake in Mount Arlington. Her service extended beyond personal worship; for many years, she shared her unwavering faith as a religious education teacher, touching countless lives and instilling the teachings of love and kindness in others.

The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in commemorating Carolyn's remarkable life Monday, June 16 from 8-9 AM at the Ippolito-Stellato Funeral Home, 7 Two Bridges Road, Fairfield, followed by a funeral mass at St. James of the Marches Church at 9:30 AM. Carolyn will be laid to rest peacefully following the service at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Totowa.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Carolyn's honor to Catholic Charities USA, 2050 Ballenger Ave, Suite 400, Alexandria, VA 22314

In this time of sorrow, the family finds solace in the love and memories shared with Carolyn. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a beacon of faith, love, and strength. May she rest in eternal peace.