Afaf Saba passed away at home on June 25, 2026, at the age of 88.

Born in Nablus, Palestine, to Iskander and Linda (Majdalani) Saba, Afaf lived a life rich in family, friendship, travel, and cultural experiences. Her journey took her from Palestine to Lebanon, and Tripoli, Libya, where she spent her young adult years, then to Rome, Italy, which she called home for more than five decades. In March 2025, she relocated to Randolph, New Jersey, to be closer to her son and family.

In Lebanon, Afaf worked at the German Embassy, where her intelligence, professionalism, and multilingual abilities served her well. After moving to Libya, Afaf met the love of her life, Elio Cernuto. Their love story began there, and they were married in 1962. Together they built a beautiful family, welcoming three sons: Antonio, Carlo, and Rodolfo. Before moving to Rome, Afaf worked for Marathon Oil and after settling in Rome, she continued her career as an Administrator for Royal Jordanian Airlines, a role she enjoyed for many years, until her retirement.

Afaf was known for her vibrant personality, boundless energy, and love of connecting with others. She was highly social and treasured spending time with friends, whether sharing conversations over coffee, gathering for a meal, or enjoying a spirited game of cards. One of the roles she held most proudly was that of Scout Leader, dedicating many years to mentoring young people and fostering a sense of community and adventure.

Gifted with a talent for languages, Afaf spoke Italian, English, French, and Arabic fluently, allowing her to build friendships and connections across cultures and throughout her travels.

Although she enjoyed an active social life, nothing was more important to Afaf than her family. She cherished time spent with her sons and extended family, creating memories through picnics, days at the beach, holiday gatherings, and countless trips around the world. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will remain a lasting legacy for all who knew her.

Afaf is survived by her son Antonio Cernuto and his wife, Mizar Turdiu; her son Rodolfo Cernuto and his former wife, Patrizia Puccia and their children, Carola, Chiara, Tommaso, and Camilla Cernuto; her sister, Gretta Bordcosh; her beloved grandchildren, Alessandro (Elissa), Mauro, Andrea (fiancée Nicole): and her cherished great-grandchildren, Luca and Leo.

Growing up with six sisters and a brother, Afaf was blessed with a large extended family of nieces and nephews living around the world. She cherished each one, staying closely connected through phone calls, messages, and social media. She always took an active interest in their lives.

Afaf was predeceased by her husband, Elio, and her son, Carlo.

Afaf will be remembered for her strength, kindness, curiosity, and deep love for family. Her presence brought warmth and joy to those around her, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation on Thursday, July 2, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Bailey Funeral Home, 8 Hilltop Road, Mendham, New Jersey.