Rose Syrell Aquilano

Rose Syrell Aquilano, affectionately known as "Lovey", beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on May 17, 1934, in Jersey City, NJ, Rose lived a rich and full life, ultimately residing in Freehold, NJ. With a spirited personality, she was well-known for her feisty nature, vibrant pink loving spirit, and unique ability to infuse humor into her every day life.

Rose dedicated many of her years as a nurse's aide to Paul Kimball Hospital, where she exemplified compassion and care. Her wisdom and life experiences shaped her into a remarkable individual whose opinions were always sharply articulated, and she was never afraid to incorporate a curse word into every conversation.

Rose was predeceased by her beloved husband, Anthony J. Aquilano, Sr., and her siblings, Annamarie Rodgers & James Van Dolson, Jr.

Loving mother of the late Anthony J. Aquilano, Jr. AKA "My Son Anthony" and his wife Denise, James V. Aquilano, AKA "My Son Jimmy" and his wife Pat, the late Diane Kovatch, Michele Rice, Kevin J. Aquilano AKA "Mommy's Homeboy" and his wife Antonette, Syrell Aquilano AKA "Mommy's Thinker" and her husband Joe, Gabrielle Youngclaus AKA "Mommy's Boss" and her husband Bobby, Amanda Hamel AKA "The Funny One" and her husband Doug affectionately referred to as "Mommy's Boyfriend", Rachel Siragusa and her husband Mike, and Jessica Aquilano. Rose's legacy will continue through her 20 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild, as well as many nieces and nephews who cherished her dearly.

A warm, loving woman, Rose had a passion for cooking, knitting cozy sweaters and blankets, and enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, such as solving crossword puzzles and indulging in her favorite snacks. She was particularly fond of M&M's with peanuts, chips, caffeine-free Diet Pepsi, and white wine. Her playful spirit shone through not only in her culinary habits but also in her affectionate nicknames for her children and their spouses. Rose found joy watching her favorite TV shows including "Blue Bloods" and "NCIS", favorite Lifetime Channel, the Sound of Music, and spending time engaged in games of bingo. She also fully enjoyed emerging herself into her romance novels AKA "Her Dirty Books".

A passionate devotee of the Blessed Mother, Rose prayed the rosary daily, exemplifying her faith alongside her love for family.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 30th, 2025 from 4:00pm-8:00pm in Ippolito-Stellato Funeral Home, Lyndhurst NJ.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, honoring Rose's generous spirit.

Rose will be profoundly missed by all who knew her, and her vibrant spirit will live on in the hearts she touched.