On January 16, 2026, Romona Saraceno, beloved wife of 66 years to the love of her life, John, and devoted mother of four, peacefully passed away at home in Wildwood, NJ, surrounded by family and friends. She was 90 years old.

Born on June 13, 1935, in Philadelphia, Romona was the daughter of Frank and Phyllis (Franco) Mazza, and the cherished sister of Rosemary (Walsh) and Loretta (Copertino).

Romona and John’s love story began in true classic fashion. During her school years, a friend invited her to walk the boardwalk and have coffee in Atlantic City with some friends. At first, she hesitated—not knowing the boy who would be driving—but with her mother’s permission (as long as she returned before dark), she went. A week later, the same friend invited her to a dance at Broad & Moore. Romona initially declined, remembering that the blue - eyed boy said he didn’t dance. What she didn’t know was that he had gone home and asked his sister to teach him how to jitterbug—just so he could dance with her. They attended the dance together, and as the saying goes, the rest is history.

Romona and John were married on May 5, 1956, building a beautiful life together and raising four children: John, Brian, Mark, and Karen. She was also the proud Mom - Mom of two grandsons, Mark and Harley. After graduating from South Philadelphia Highschool business school, Romona began her career at the 7 Up Bottling Company, later working at Central Penn Bank. When the family moved to Wildwood, NJ, she spent more than two decades with Lion Tours, nearly three decades at Nickels Amusements on the boardwalk, and also served as bookkeeper for Joe Montello at La Piazza and his various restaurant ventures. 

Romona lived life with warmth, enthusiasm, and a love for community. She enjoyed traveling, going to the casino, playing Mahjong weekly with her circle of close friends and was a long - standing member of the Sons of Italy. She loved music, dancing, and classic movies—but above all, her greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was always her family. Her presence will be deeply missed, but those who loved her take comfort in knowing she and John are once again dancing together.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on January 22, 2026, at The Assumption Roman Catholic Church, 7100 Seaview Avenue, Wildwood Crest, NJ. Friends may call from 10:00–11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at the Cape May County Veterans Cemetery in Cape May Courthouse.May God welcome her into eternal rest, surround her with His love, and grant comfort and strength to all who carry her memory in their hearts.