Obituary of Dolores M Braidi

Dolores Marie (DeMatte) Braidi, aged 83 years, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 18th, at home surrounded by her devoted family and beloved dog, Fozio. Dolores was born on March 15, 1933 to Anthony and Edith DeMatte. She grew up on her family's farm in South Vineland, and never shied away from a hard day's work. Dolores graduated from Vineland High School in 1950 where she was full of school spirit as a basketball star, drum majorette and bookkeeping student. Being raised with a tremendous work ethic she began working for her parent's business, DeMatte Oil Company while she was still in high school. She served as the secretary and treasurer from its inception in 1946, and never stopped. Her independent nature set her off to build her resume at Wene's Poultry Laboratory and later as a dedicated secretary for LeGore Appraisal Company all while maintaining her position with DeMatte Oil. She married the love of her life, John Braidi on February 19, 1955, and eventually settled into the Braidi family homestead in East Vineland where they raised two children, Valerie and Jay. Together they operated the family farm until the early 1980's. In 1972 they ventured into the next chapter of their life together entering into the oil business. They became the owners of DeMatte Oil where Dolores served as co-owner and chief financial officer until 2012 due to health complications. While she always had a passion for hard work, she also knew how to enjoy life to the fullest. Dolores could often be found in Atlantic City enjoying the casinos, celebrity shows, her favorite restaurants and socializing with good friends. She was an avid antique collector and loved hunting for her next treasure. When she wasn't out and about she could be found in her kitchen cooking up "the best" for her family. She loved discovering and sharing new recipes, especially Italian ones. Her greatest legacy was one of family. Her pride and joy were her two children, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren whom she adored. She was always their biggest fan attending every event and celebrating in every victory they accomplished. She was blessed with a happy, healthy family all her life, and is predeceased by her parents, Anthony and Edith DeMatte. Dolores is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, John Braidi, two children; Valerie (Wayne) Groetsch, Jay (Debbie) Braidi, six grandchildren; Victoria (Michael) Lods, John (Jamie) Braidi, Andrew Groetsch, Samantha Braidi, Leah Braidi, and Alex Groetsch, two great-grandchildren; John Henry and James Lods, sister; Gloria Trivellini, sister-in-laws; Louise Braidi, Lucy Dalponte, and Helen Coia, aunt; Evelyn Nelson and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. A celebration of Dolores' life will be held…TBD In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions may be made to Padre Pio Parish in Dolores Braidi's memory.