Obituary of Gloria Cirelli Ronis

Gloria Cirelli, 93, of Vineland passed away on October 13th 2015. Born to the late Joseph and Carmella Caruso, on June 11th 1922. As a graduate of Vineland High School class of 1940 Gloria spent her school days as a cheerleader and tennis player. She was very proud of her participation as head cheerleader for the 1939-40 football season. She used the alias "Tilly Specknoodle" after a post pep rally taunt at Milville High School the day before the historic Thanksgiving Day Millville/Vineland football game. She married her High School sweetheart John Cirelli in 1941 spending the next 25 years as a housewife and working various jobs including Tursini Clothing and Food Fair. During that time she and John had two daughters, Johanna and Marie. After John's sudden death in 1966 she enrolled in Cumberland County College to pursue and receive an Associates Degree in Sociology. At this time Gloria became very active in the Cumberland County Mental Health Association where she worked closely with political figures to implement various programs such as Parents Anonymous. She was also very active in the associations largest fundraiser The Golden Bell Ball. It was through the Mental Health Association and The Golden Bell Ball that she met her second husband, Marvin Ronis with whom she spent the next 37 years with until his death in 2013. Together they saw the birth of 5 granddaughters, who quickly became the light of Gloria;s life. Mom Mom quickly became a fan of softball, basketball, tennis and anything else in which her granddaughters were involved. She never missed the first day of school or any other life event of "Her Girls". They were her hear and soul until 2006 when the next generation began, a great grandson Nicolas, the first of 5 great grandchildren. Leah Marie, John Charles, Anthony, and Calvin soon followed. Her second passion after family was food. In keeping with the tratdition of her Italian heritage she prepared 5 star gourmet meals on a regular basis, taking great pleasure in surprising her guest with her unique entertainment flares as the "hostess with the mostest". She would be seen entertaining with bottles of white wine, champagne, or Chivas. Her baking was also first class and most of her nieces and nephews still have memories of a favorite cake of aunt Gloria's. She was the maker of meatballs, "The Baker of the White Cake", the drinker of wine and champagne straight from the bottle; she loved to entertain. Most importantly she was a supportive loving mother, the best, she taught by examopole and was lovingly referred to as "Mom" by many. She was always ready and willing to help anyone in need with counseling, a place to stay, a meal or simply a sympathetic ear. She was truly loved by all who knew her. She will be greatly missed.