Obituary of James Maillaro
James "Jack" Maillaro, a man of remarkable spirit and legacy, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2024, at the age of 75, leaving behind a life story rich with family, hard work, and love. Born on February 15, 1949, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to Josephine and Anthony Maillaro, Jack was the eldest of three siblings. His early life in Jersey City, where he graduated from Snyder High School, laid the foundation for a future filled with dedication and entrepreneurship.
In the bustling streets of his hometown, Jack became known as one of the last great fruit peddlers, embodying a bygone era with his horse and wagon. His early days selling fresh fruits and vegetables were just the beginning of a lifelong journey in the family produce business. Alongside his father, grandfather, and uncles, Jack witnessed and contributed to the evolution of their trade. In 1980, they embarked on a new venture, opening 440 Farms Inc., the family's first self-service produce store. This spirit of enterprise was a family trait, as seen in 1992 when Jack's children continued his legacy by opening Somerset Farms, the second family-owned produce store.
Jack's passion extended beyond his professional life. He was an ardent lover of boating, fishing, and equestrian pursuits, often found driving through the Pennsylvania hills with country music as his soundtrack. His interests were a conduit for family bonding, ensuring he shared these joys with loved ones.
His personal life was marked by a love story that began at 16 when he dated Joanne, who would become his devoted wife. Married at 21, they built a life enriched with love, laughter, and shared dreams, moving from Jersey City to Watchung, New Jersey, and raising three children who became the center of Jack's universe.
Known for his strong will and stubbornness, Jack also possessed a boundless heart and a vibrant sense of humor. His self-educated wisdom, drawn from life's experiences, made him a man of depth, generosity, and loyalty. Above all, Jack cherished his family, ceaselessly striving to provide a prosperous life for them, his pride in his children and eight grandchildren knew no bounds.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Josephine and Anthony.
He leaves behind a legacy through his wife, Joanne; children, Joanne, James and his wife Teresa, Lisa and her husband Edward; grandchildren Michael, Jacqueline, Nicholas, Ava, Gina, Giuliana, Francesca, and Olivia; sister Christine; brother Anthony, his wife Anna, and their son Anthony Gerard, alongside numerous nieces, nephews, dear cousins and his beloved pets Toby and Sasha.
James "Jack" Maillaro's life was a testament to the enduring values of family, hard work, and the simple joys of life. His story continues in the hearts of those he loved and who loved him in return.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, April 7th, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd. Watchung NJ. A funeral mass will be held on Monday, April 8th, 2024, at Our Lady of the Mount Chapel in Warren followed by the interment at Holy Name Cemetery in Jersey City.
