Obituary of Elizabeth Marie Nawracaj

Elizabeth Marie Nawracaj, age 65, died on Thursday, March 26, 2009 at her home in Warren. She was born in Brooklyn, NY and had lived in Warren since 1955. She was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother. Elizabeth was proud to be the owner of the oldest restaurant in Warren Township. She owned and operated Scarpellino's Italian Restaurant established in 1968 in her home. She had received numerous plaques and awards for her generous donations Despite suffering from severe panic disorder and agoraphobia her entire life, Elizabeth ran Scarpellino's for 42 years. She had an unrivaled compassion and empathy, which helped countless people and animals in need over the years. Elizabeth also counseled many others with panic disorder in person and through an online panic group. She had incredible inner strength and always fought hard for what she believed in. Her strong faith in God was an integral part of her life and she often shared it with others helping them through tough times. Elizabeth was a communicant of Our Lady of the Mount Church and taught CCD. Her restaurant was used for the CCD classes. At one time, she was very active in the Warren Jaycee-ettes and she was a past president. During her busy restaurant career, she studied and became a paralegal and also started a craft store. We are comforted by knowing that you are in Heaven with those you loved and missed so much and are finally free of your fears. Thank you for your never-ending unconditional love. You will be deeply missed and we love you very much. Elizabeth is survived by her loving husband, Edward J. Nawracaj; her daughter, Kathy Moncelsi and her husband, Randy of Dunellen; her brothers, Dr. Ralph Scarpellino of Green Brook and Dr. Richard Scarpellino of Marion, MA and her grandchildren, Kristina and Michael. She is also survived by 5 nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 30th at 9:00 a.m. at Higgins Home for Funerals followed by a 10:00 a.m. Mass of Resurrection at Our Lady of the Mount Chapel. Cremation will be at Somerset Hills Memorial Park. Visitation will be on Sunday from 3 to 6 pm.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Plainfield Area Humane Society, 75 Rock Ave., Plainfield, NJ 07060.