Obituary of Michael Joseph Pacilli
Michael Joseph Pacilli, 77, passed away peacefully at his home in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, on Monday, January 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 29, 1947, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Michael was the cherished only child of Julius and Josephine Pacilli.
Michael grew up in Elizabeth, where he graduated from high school before being drafted into the United States Army. He served his country honorably during the Vietnam War, a testament to his strength and courage. Upon his return, with the unwavering support of his family, Michael pursued his entrepreneurial spirit and founded Elite Auto Sales in Roselle, New Jersey. Over the years, he expanded his successful business to include locations in Plainfield, Waretown, and Toms River. He dedicated himself to his business for decades before retiring about ten years ago.
Michael’s faith was an important part of his life. As a child, he received his sacraments at St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church in Elizabeth. Later, while raising his family in Watchung, New Jersey, he attended Wilson Memorial Church, where his children found spiritual guidance and a sense of community.
Michael was a man of many talents and interests. His green thumb was equally remarkable—he could bring any plant to life, and his garden flourished under his care. Golf was another passion, and he found joy and relaxation on the greens over the years.
Michael treasured the simple yet meaningful pleasures of life, including time spent at the Jersey Shore. Whether at their homes in Toms River or Tuckerton, he loved sitting on the dock, basking in the sun, and watching the water. Later in life, he and his beloved wife, Lorraine, embraced the snowbird lifestyle, spending winters in Florida. Their road trips to and from New Jersey were filled with stops at charming locations, turning each journey into a shared adventure.
Above all, Michael’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, whose love and guidance were at the center of his life.
Michael was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Lisa Vasselli, who passed away in 2019. He leaves behind his loving wife of many years, Lorraine Pacilli; his children, Trish Sullivan and her husband Richard, William Pacilli, and Michelle Loomis and her husband Anthony; and his son-in-law, Ronald Vasselli. He was the adored grandfather of ten grandchildren: Adriana, Isabella, Grace, Caroline, Gabrielle, Michael, Emily, Jack, Rocco, and Emma, who will forever hold him in their hearts.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering or the Wounded Warrior Project, two organizations deeply meaningful to Michael and his family.
Michael Pacilli was a man of integrity, kindness, and boundless love. His legacy lives on in the lives of all who were privileged to know and love him.
