Obituary of Romola Ventura

Romola (Ro) Ventura passed away on Friday, June 4, surrounded by the love and support of her family.  She was born in Jersey City to Jean (Basile) and Bernard Vena, and attended the Academy of Saint Aloysius and College of Notre Dame in Staten Island, New York. Ro was predeceased by her beloved husband of 67 years, August (Gus). Together they had 5 children; Michele (Mallozzi), Michael, Bernard, August and Robert, who they raised in Fanwood and Scotch Plains.  When their children were grown, they moved to Far Hills, spending their winters in Siesta Key, Florida. Ro and Gus travelled extensively throughout the world with friends and family, embracing a diverse array of rich personal and cultural experiences everywhere they went,

Ro was a devoted mother who often spoke about how much she loved  raising her children, calling it “the best job in the world” and her “happiest memories”. She was equally devoted to her to her 13 grandchildren Andrew, Christina, Laura, Alex, Marisa, August Michael, Robert, Lisa, Christina, Joseph, Mark, David Jack and 9 great grandchildren.  Her kitchen table was always the first stop to receive sage advice, great food and an their answer to "don't tell my Mom but..." She took days to prepare Holiday feasts for upwards of 30 family members and friends, and she did so with love and a masterful touch. Ro was someone who everyone always wanted to be with.

She was an active member in the Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Scotch Plains and St. Brigid's in Peapack and a daily communicant at Mass, raising her family with a strong sense of faith. Her religion was very important to her, guiding the way she led her life and raised her children.  Ro also loved opera, reading, attending family functions, being with her friends, and of course the beach.

As Ro needed more care, it is no wonder that her children all made sure she was never alone. Everyone always left her presence learning something, admiring the courage she has shown these past 4 years. Ro was a very special woman who will be dearly missed as someone who  taught us the importance of humility, family, faith and friends.

Visitation will on Wednesday June 9 at  Bailey Funeral Home 176 Main Street, Peapack NJ from 4-8pm.  The Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Brigid Church 129 Main Street Peapack, NJ on Thursday June 10th at 10:30 am followed by Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery in Basking Ridge. In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to

St. Michael the Archangel Church Building Fund

5394 Midnight Pass Road

Sarasota Florida  34242

Attn. Diane Ho