Rosa Buondonno (nee Portale), age 83 of Hammonton, NJ, passed away peacefully at her daughter's home surrounded by her family on Saturday, December 13, 2025.

Rosa was born and raised in Caronia, Sicily, Italy, and immigrated to the United States with her late husband, Frank, in 1967. They first lived in South Philadelphia before moving to Hammonton, New Jersey. Known to all as Nonna, Rosa was loved by many and a dear friend to all. She spent her life building a home filled with love, faith, food, and family. She cherished every moment cooking and enjoying espresso with her family and friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime. She will be sorely missed by her daughter, Maria, son-in-law Michael, and especially by her beloved grandchildren Francesca, Shannon, and Dean. Rosa's warmth, generosity, and devotion to those she loved touched everyone who knew her, leaving a legacy of love and joy that will never be forgotten.

Over the years, Rosa worked for W. B. Kessler Clothing Factory, Dear Park Cookie Factory, and Whitehall Labs, all located in Hammonton, NJ. In these occupations she demonstrated her hard work, dedication, and commitment to supporting her family. Upon retirement, she lovingly devoted her time to caring for her grandchildren, sharing her warmth, wisdom, and countless cherished moments with them.

She is predeceased by her parents Giuseppe and Michela Portale, husbands Frank Buono and Paul Buondonno, brother Giovanni Portale, sister-in-law(s) Maria, Josephine Donato, Graziella Portale and brother-in-law Peppe.

Rosa is survived by her daughter, Maria Rosa Higgins, and her husband, Michael; her brother, Michele Portale; and her sisters, Graziella Portale Crisci and Maria Portale Modaffari. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins in Italy; her devoted nephew, Charles Donato and her three grandchildren, Francesca, Shannon, and Dean Higgins.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her viewing on Friday, December 19, 2025, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. at Marinella Funeral Home, 102 N. Third Street, Hammonton, NJ 08037. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Parish-St. Joseph Church, 3rd and French Streets, Hammonton, NJ 08037. Entombment will follow at Greenmount Cemetery, 124 South First Road, Hammonton, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rosa's memory to the Hammonton Cancer Foundation P.O. 1066 Hammonton, NJ 08037.