Maria M. Desiderio

Maria Milagros Bernard Desiderio, died peacefully on August 2, 2024, at the age of 76. She was born in Adjuntas, Puerto Rico, to the late Juan and Marcelina Bernard. Her family settled in Elizabeth, New Jersey, where she graduated from Battin High School.

Maria's life was a testament to her love and devotion to her family. She began her family with the late John DeMarco and their two daughters, Marie and Patricia. Later, she met her beloved husband, Dominick Desiderio, and together they expanded their family, with their son, Tony, and late daughter, Gina.

One of Maria's greatest joys in life was her family. A natural caretaker who dedicated herself to nurturing her children, her grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Her home was always filled with warmth and laughter, creating a haven for her family to gather and make lasting memories.

In addition to her family, Maria’s love extended to her own business, The Little Munchkins Daycare. Here, she provided exceptional care, love, and support to over 70 children. The daycare children coined the name “Eia,” which was lovingly adopted by her grandchildren, Alec and Alexa.

Maria’s passions included collecting turtles, reading, cooking, NY Giants football games, and decorating for the holidays, especially Halloween. She loved the hot weather just as much as the rain. She was an avid reader and found joy in listening to Latin music and Frank Sinatra. Eia/Nana’s role as a grandmother was one, she cherished above all. “To the moon and back,” her grandchildren were the light of her life. She took immense pride in their accomplishments and joys, as well as spending countless hours creating special moments with them. Her love, care, and devotion knew no bounds.

Maria was preceded in death by her first husband, John DeMarco, recently deceased husband of 46 years, Dominick Desiderio, their daughter, Gina Desiderio, and her dear siblings, Nereida Manzaret, Alberto Romero, and Jose Bernard.

Maria is survived by her loving children: Dr. Marie L. Miller and husband Gregory; Patrica Marsh and husband Gregory; and her son Anthony Desiderio. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Alec, Christopher, Alexa, Valentina, and Blair; her dear siblings Merna Chong and Norma Marin; as well as her many beloved nieces, nephews, extended daycare family, and friends.

Maria's legacy of love, care, and devotion to her family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her. Memorial visitation will be held from 4:00pm to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at Cusick Funeral Home, 80 Mountain Avenue, Somerville.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at St. Ann R.C. Church, Anderson Street, Raritan, NJ.