Jean DiDia

Jean DiDia (née Nicastro), 90, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2024 in Wilton CT. Born on May 6, 1934, in Newark, NJ, Jean spent over 40 years as a dedicated elementary school teacher in Irvington, NJ. She earned a Master’s degree in Education and multiple Teacher of the Year awards. She was a devoted educator who loved her students and her life’s work. 

Jean was a resident of Millburn, NJ for over 50 years. She was a devout member of St. Rose of Lima in Short HiIls and an advocate for both children's health and education and for the prevention of animal cruelty. She was a generous supporter of the arts, loved to sing and dance, and enjoyed old musicals, good Italian food and neighborhood diners. Above all, she dearly loved her family and friends. 

She is survived by her daughters Michaele (Peter) Taylor and Angelica (Steven) Laverty as well as her grandchildren Ryan, Lindsay, Joseph (Mariam), Harrison, and Reed and great-granddaughter Charlotte. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Joseph; daughter Salvatrice; and siblings, Charles, Ralph, Anna, Josephine, and Columbia. 

Per Jean’s request, private services will be held at a future date. Those wishing to honor Jean’s memory, may make contributions to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

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