Obituary of Doreen Louise DiMaria
Doreen L. DiMaria, of Brick, N.J., passed away peacefully at the age of 75 on Wednesday, May 14, surrounded by her six loving daughters and her beloved sister. Born in Plainfield, N.J., she was the cherished daughter of the late Philomena (Dessino) Snedeker.
Doreen was a devoted stay-at-home mother to her six amazing daughters. She was deeply involved in their lives—serving as class mom, chaperoning school trips, baking cupcakes, and never missing a sporting event or activity at Sacred Heart School, Pop Warner, Mount Saint Mary Academy or South Plainfield High School. She served on the PTA and was also a Member of the Junior Woman’s Club. The DiMaria home in South Plainfield was a warm and welcoming place, always open to her daughters’ friends and countless gatherings with family and loved ones. It was a home full of laughter, love, and community.
After her children were grown, Doreen began working for Somerset County Transportation, where she proudly served for 20 years until her retirement in 2016. Known for her strong work ethic and dedication, she was honored as Dispatcher of the Year in 2004. She gave 100% in all she did—even riding along with county recycling crews when staffing was short.
She was also a member of the UNICO-The Raritan Chapter where she served as the second Vice-President for the last few years.
Of all her roles in life, Doreen’s favorite was being a mother. She was immensely proud of each of her daughters and the unique paths they chose.
Some of her favorite activities included ‘coffee klatch’ mornings at our home with her friends and relaxing poolside with family and loved ones. Trips to Atlantic City and Las Vegas, going ‘Down the Shore’ with her family, where she eventually retired- playing Bingo, planning and cooking for many parties and family celebrations, cheering on her grandchildren at their sporting events. During Rutgers games, she could be found flipping burgers at Kelly’s Korner with pride and spirit. On St. Patrick’s Day, she brought smiles to many while preparing and serving her signature corned beef and cabbage at the same beloved Irish pub, dressed as ‘Lucky the Italian Leprechaun.’ Doreen enjoyed shows and live music—especially performances by the Cameos. She loved to dance, dress up—whether in costume or in her finest—and embraced every moment with joy. She also found joy in ‘volunteering’ at Town Square in Brick and cherished conversations with neighbors in her retirement community. She was always ready and willing to help her family and friends! But above all, her most cherished activity was spending time and making memories with her incredible family, because she truly was #BLESSED!
Doreen’s warm personality and caring nature made her the beloved matriarch of the DiMaria Family where she was known for her deep love and devotion to her six daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her. Doreen leaves behind a legacy of love, family and community involvement.
Predeceased by her husband, Daniel J. DiMaria and Mother, Philomena (Dessino) Snedeker.
She is survived and deeply loved by her six daughters: Dana Zampella, Danielle (Tony Sadorski), Denise, Doreen, Devon (Jason Phillips), and Dani-Jo (Doug Marold); nine cherished grandchildren: Brittanni, Daniel, Anthony, Gianna, Olivia, Mikayla, Grayson, Delaney and Presley; and two adored great-grandchildren: Kennedy and Lorenzo. Also surviving are her beloved sister, Gloria (Snedeker) Curran (Charles); nephews Sean and Christopher; and many other extended family members and dear friends.
Family and Friends may gather on Monday, May 19th, 2025 from 2-4 & 6-9 pm in the McCriskin-Gustafson Home for Funerals, 2425 Plainfield Avenue, South Plainfield, NJ 07080.
A funeral mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 Sacred Heart RC Church, South Plainfield for a Funeral Mass at 10 AM. Those who wish to join the family prior to the mass must do so at 9 AM in the funeral home.
Entombment will follow mass in Holy Redeemer Cemetery Mausoleum, South Plainfield.