Rosemary T. Genova (née Fortino), 76, of Williamstown, peacefully passed away at home on Monday, September 22, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Beloved wife of Joseph Genova for 54 wonderful years. Devoted mother to Angela (Anthony) Novak, Michelle (Joseph) Hozalski, and Joseph (Jennifer) Genova. Cherished grandmother to Anthony, Nicholas (fiancée Kate), Joseph (fiancé Andrew), Michael, Isabella, and Joseph. Treasured niece of Carmen (Marie) DeVece. Loving sister to Michael Fortino and Francis Fortino.
Rosemary was a loving wife, a devoted mother and grandmother, a gifted schoolteacher, and a faithful servant of God. She graduated from Sacred Heart High School and earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Glassboro State College, now known as Rowan University. She went on to teach at St. Charles Borromeo School in Cinnaminson, NJ, and later at St. Mary’s School in Williamstown, where she touched the lives of countless students with her compassion and dedication.
A devout Catholic, Rosemary attended daily morning Mass and lived her life as a beautiful reflection of her faith. Her passion for sharing the Word of God touched countless lives and inspired many to draw closer to Him.
She had a heart full of grace and a spirit that radiated warmth. Rosemary loved cooking authentic Italian meals for her friends and family—her kitchen was a place of love, laughter, and delicious tradition. Her innocent, charming sense of humor made everyone smile. Animals were naturally drawn to her gentle soul, and there wasn’t a grand-dog who didn’t adore being by her side.
As a mother and grandmother, she had a firm hand and a tender heart—always guiding with love and wisdom. It became a running joke that there wasn’t an Amazon delivery driver in New Jersey who didn’t know Rosemary Genova’s address by heart.
Rosemary gave generously of her time and talents to her parish and numerous charities. She served as a lector and Eucharistic minister, and lovingly cleaned and prepared altar linens for many years. She also owned and operated Rosa Mystica, a Catholic gift store, for eight years. She found joy in handcrafting brown scapulars and was a proud member of the Lay Carmelite Order.
A woman of many talents, Rosemary coached basketball for several years and held a second-degree black belt in Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan—a testament to her surprising strength and determination.
In 1972, she became secretary and treasurer of Genova Express Lines, Inc., working alongside her husband for decades. She was instrumental in founding AMJ Logistics, where she served as managing director until her passing. Her commitment, leadership, and steady presence were the backbone of the family business.
Rosemary touched more lives than can be counted. Her legacy is one of love, faith, generosity, and quiet strength. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend her viewing on Friday, September 26th, from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at the Bell-Hennessy Funeral Home, 420 S. Main St., Williamstown. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, September 27th at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Peace Parish / St. Mary’s R.C. Church, 32 Carroll Ave., Williamstown, NJ 08094. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Williamstown.
The Funeral Mass Live Stream can be viewed @ m.facebook.com/OLOPPWilliamstown/
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Our Lady of Peace Parish at the address above.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Rosemary T. Genova, please visit our floral store.