Obituary of Nicholas Paolella

Our beloved Dad and Grandpa, Nicholas Paolella, 99, of East Orange, sadly passed away on January 22, 2024, a few months shy of his 100^th birthday. He rejoined his wife of 53 years, June Moluse Paolella (deceased), whom he loved dearly.

Nick was born on May 4, 1924, to Angelo and Josephine Paolella in Orange, New Jersey and became a lifelong resident of East Orange. He was the eldest of six siblings: Sarah, Connie (deceased), Richard (deceased), Angelo (deceased) and Josephine. After WWII, he took a job working for the government, where he met the love of his life, June. They were married on September 14, 1947, and two daughters, Linda and Judy soon followed.

Nick was a hard worker. In partnership with his brother, Andy, they built a successful family business, Angelo Paolella Jr & Bros. in Warren, New Jersey, for over 25 years. He was a devoted father, always ensuring that family came first and never hesitated to help them. In his spare time, he enjoyed raising fish, gardening, and taking a ride to the shore with his sweetheart, June.

Being a grandfather was his best “job.” His love and pride for his five grandchildren was never-ending. He leaves behind Michael Lawlor and his wife Sunny, Nicole Scelfo and her husband John, Nicholas Lawlor and his wife Tarra, Christina King and her husband James, and Stephen Lawlor and his wife Kristin. He also leaves behind seven great-grandchildren who will greatly miss their “Pop-Pop.”

Nick was a pillar in our lives and will be greatly missed by all that knew him. He lived his life to the fullest and made every day count. His charm, beautiful baby blue eyes, booming voice and one-of-a-kind sayings could never be matched, and will never be forgotten.  

In lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate donations to St. Joseph’s Church in East Orange, a parish Nick was a devoted member of for over 80 years.

The family will be receiving friends at St. Joseph's Church, 110 Telford Street, East Orange, on Saturday, January 27^th at 9:30 AM followed by a funeral mass at 10:00 AM.