Obituary of Concetta Ceres

Concetta Ceres (née Mastrodomenico), age 95, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family on May 22, 2026. Born on January 29, 1931, in Sant'Andrea di Conza, Italy, Concetta lived a life filled with family, friendship, and love.

She was predeceased by her parents, Filomena Ilardi and Gerardo Mastrodomenico; her siblings Donatina (Maria) Scioscia, Michele Mastrodomenico, Vittorio Mastrodomenico, and Raphael Mastrodomenico.

Concetta is survived by her devoted husband, Francesco “Ciccio” Ceres; her brother, Rocco Mastrodomenico and his wife Rita; and their children Lucia Nodoro (Jim), Dina Burns (Kevin), and Rocco G. Mastrodomenico (Leonora). She is also survived by her beloved nieces and nephews: Phyllis, Vito, Donna, Eddie (Jamie), Michelene (Lucia), Filomena, Gerardo (Dina), Vickie, and Tina, along with many cherished grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

Concetta was born and raised in Sant’Andrea di Conza, Avellino, Italy, where she spent the first part of her life before immigrating to the United States in 1972. She married Francesco “Ciccio” Ceres in 1974, and together they built a loving home in the Morris Plains, NJ area.

A gifted seamstress, Concetta worked for Pearls Upholstery for several years before eventually starting her own sewing business out of her home. She took great pride in her work and treasured the relationships she formed with the many people who came to her for tailoring and custom upholstery. Her creativity and talent could be seen throughout her home and in the many handmade items she lovingly created for family and friends.

Concetta was best known for her warmth in the kitchen. She was an exceptional cook who loved preparing homemade pasta and traditional Italian dishes for those she loved. She became famous among family and friends for “Aunt Concetta’s Pizza,” a favorite at gatherings and special occasions. Her home was always open, and visitors were never allowed to leave hungry. Whether planned or unexpected, every visit included food, laughter, and hospitality.

Above all else, Concetta cherished her family. Over the years she loved attending celebrations, hosting holidays and gatherings, and spending time with those closest to her. She frequently returned to Italy, often spending summers in her hometown visiting with friends and relatives. She also enjoyed cruises, family vacations to Disney World, day trips to Atlantic City, shopping excursions, and especially buying shoes.

Even after “retiring,” Concetta devoted much of her time to caring for her many grand-nieces and grand-nephews, all of whom adored visiting “Jet’s house.” She spoiled them with love, food, and endless affection.

Concetta lived a simple, joyful life filled with love for her husband, family, and friends. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those around her will never be forgotten. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Family and friends are welcome to gather on Thursday, May 28, 2026 from 5-8pm at Dangler Funeral Home, 600 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains. A Funeral Mass for Concetta will be celebrated on Friday, May 29, 2026 at 10:00am at St. Virgil's Church, 250 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains. Interment will follow at Holy Rood Cemetery, Morristown. 

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Morris Minute Men @ morrisminutemen.org/donate and The VNA of Northern New Jersey @ VNAnnj.org.