Maria Gallo, 76, passed away in California on February 28, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Maria was born and raised in Italy with her parents and siblings.  At age 20, Maria moved to New Jersey where she met and married Gerardo Gallo shortly after. Together they had three beautiful children whom they raised in Millburn. Maria enjoyed her years of work as a crossing guard, getting children safely to and from school, rain or shine.  After many years in NJ with her extended family, Maria retired to California joining her adult children.  Maria loved going to the farmers market, traveling, spending time at the ocean, enjoying a gin and tonic with family and cooking for her beloved granddaughter.

Devoted mother of Ivana Gallo, Stephanie Gallo Ward, her husband Ethan, and Gerardo Gallo.  Cherished grandmother of Riley Ward.  Dear sister of John, Cristina, Angela, Lidia and Giovanna.  Maria was also survived by many nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends.

Maria was pre-deceased by her husband Gerardo Gallo, her granddaughter Ciara Ward, her parents Gregorio and Giuseppina Venturi, and her siblings Aldo, Vincenza and Franco.

The memorial visitation will be held at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park, NJ on Thursday, March 19th from 4-7pm.  The inurnment will be held at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover on Friday, March 20th at 10am.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Maria's name to Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) at: https://secure1.chla.org/site/Donation2?df_id=5420&5420.donation=form1&mfc_pref=T

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