Carmella "Zoppy" Pomponio, a lifelong resident of New Jersey and the beloved matriarch of the Sargese family, passed away peacefully at her home in Cedar Grove on June 20, 2025.
Carmella was a cherished presence in the lives of her family and community, known for hosting countless Sunday dinners and holiday gatherings. After the family home on Sylvan Place in Montclair was sold, she continued the tradition of bringing loved ones together. Carmella and her husband, James Pomponio began their life together in Richfield Village.
She was a devoted mother to James and Ronald, and a loving sister to Rose Marie Ferrara of Nutley the late Vincent Sargese of Roseland, the late Josephine Corino of Belleville, and Anthony Sargese of Montclair, the late Patrick Sargese of Clifton. Carmella was the daughter of Pasquale Sargese, an accomplished musician with the NJ Symphony Orchestra, and Mary Sargese, a gifted cook and masterful storyteller.
Her roots traced back to Southern Italy through her grandparents, Anthony and Carmella Toglia, proud immigrants who instilled in the family a strong sense of tradition, warmth, and resilience.
She is also survived by Steven, Vincent, Nicholas and Ashley, and by her great grandchildren Francesca, Morgan, Vincent Jr., and Henley,and a great grandson, Raymond Jr.. Her Loved niece Angala Martin of Belleville and nephew Michael Sargese of Little Falls and many many more nieces and nephews and cousins.

Carmella will be remembered for her strength, her generosity, and the joy she brought to every gathering. She leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter.
A memorial will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 10:00am - 12pm at Caggiano Memorial Home, 62 Grove Street, Montclair, NJ.