Jimmy Andriola

Vincent J. Andriola, “Jimmy”, 101, of West Orange, passed away peacefully on January 29, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born and raised in Newark on June 24, 1924, Jimmy attended Central High School and was then drafted by the US Army. He served our country in WWII from 1943-1945. He fought for the 36th Infantry Division fighting all through Italy, France, and into Germany. He made two major invasions and was involved in four major battles. During his time in service, Jimmy received three Purple Hearts, along with a Bronze Star, as well as many other medals and commendations. Upon his return home he met the love of his life, Dolly Benimeo. Together they raised two daughters, Theresa and Maria, and went on to have six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Jimmy worked for Steel and Alloy Tank Company in Newark for over 35 years.

In his spare time, Jimmy loved tending to his tomato garden, playing golf, and watching the New York Giants and New York Yankees. He enjoyed trips to his favorite vacation spot, Wildwood Crest, where he spent countless summers. Jimmy was known for his homemade pasta fagioli and escarole and beans. His greatest joy in life was being surrounded by his grandchildren and great grandchildren who affectionately knew him as “Poppy”.

He was the devoted father of Theresa Beyer and her husband Daniel, and Maria Matullo and her late husband Pat. He was the cherished grandfather of Maria Grath and her husband Stephen, Amanda Farelli and her husband Andrew, Patrick Matullo III, Veronica Matullo, Vincent Matullo and his wife Kerri, and Joseph Matullo and his wife Lauren. Jimmy was the proud great-grandfather of Valentina, Sophia, Angelo, Isabella, Anthony, Luca, Charlotte and Lucia. Jimmy is also survived by his sister-in-law Lucy Sanzalone, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Jimmy was pre-deceased by his loving wife Marianne “Dolly” Andriola of 65 years, his granddaughter Tara Ruggirello, and his siblings Annie, Ida, Margie, Bill, Danny and Vera.

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Monday, February 2ndfrom 4-7pm. The funeral mass on Tuesday, February 3rd, will be held at St. Rose of Lima Church in East Hanover at 10am, followed by the interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jimmy’s name to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, see donation box below for details.

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