Obituary of Theresa Scannelli

Theresa “Peggy” Scannelli, 86, passed away peacefully at her home on June 14, 2025.

Born in Union, New Jersey, to the late Mary and Peter Ford, Peggy grew up in Union and graduated from Union High School in 1957. After high school, she worked briefly at a nursing home and later as a bank teller.

On August 8, 1959, Peggy married the love of her life, the late Richard “Dick” Scannelli. They shared a beautiful 60 years of marriage before Dick’s passing in 2020. Together, they began their life in East Orange, NJ, before settling in Blairstown, where they spent over 50 wonderful years.

Peggy worked alongside Dick as the office manager for his Roto-Rooter business, proving herself to be the most devoted and meticulous bookkeeper he could have hoped for. Beyond work, Peggy immersed herself in her community. She was a proud and active member of the Blair Women’s Club for over 30 years, where she formed cherished friendships and contributed meaningfully to local life.

She and Dick loved to travel, exploring places near and far, including trips to Europe. Peggy also had a passion for antiquing, always on the lookout for unique treasures—from vintage kitchen gadgets to distinctive pieces of furniture. In more recent years, she enjoyed dining out with friends and spending time in the Brookfield community, where she delighted in the company of her neighbors.

Peggy is survived by her loving niece Denise Stremlo and her husband Steven; nephew Gregory Novis; nieces Suzanne Scannelli, Sandi Scannelli, and Kim Diehl and her husband Ralph; nephews Gary Scannelli and Robert Ford and his wife Gayle; and her dear sister-in-law Elsie Ford.

She is predeceased by her beloved husband Richard “Dick” Scannelli, her parents Mary and Peter Ford, and her siblings Edward Ford, Mary Ford, Raymond Ford, and Nora Shellhase, and by her sister-in-law Alice Scamporino. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice in memory of our beloved Peggy.

Please join us to celebrate and remember Peggy on Saturday July 19, 2025 from 1PM until 4PM at The Architects Golf Club 700 Strykers Road, Lopatcong, NJ 08865. Lunch will be served while we all share our memories. Please email or text Denise Stremlo to advise if you will be joining and number in your party Mobile: 813-382-7545 Email: dstremlo1213@gmail.com