Elaine Camara

Mountainside resident Elaine Camara passed away Friday afternoon, November 18, at Center for Hope Hospice in Scotch Plains, N.J., at age 95. Her two daughters survive her: Dr. Donna Camara (Antonucci) of Mountainside, and Sheila Camara of Colorado Springs, Colorado, in addition to son-in-law Joseph Antonucci and her "favorite" grandson "Joey" Antonucci, Jr., whom she loved immensely. Elaine was predeceased by her loving husband, John, of 64 Years, on August 24, 2019. In 1961 John and Elaine built their home in Mountainside on a parcel of land backed by a cow pasture on a partially paved road. Here they laid the family roots, which now boasts the third generation in town.

Born in Newark, N.J., to John and Florence Romano, Elaine attended Newark Public Schools. As a child, she enjoyed attending St Lucy's Church with her Grandmother, Luisa Perna, a founding patron. Elaine graduated from Arts High School in Newark and attended Kean College. While working as a Controller for The Walter Kidde Company In Belleville, N.J., she met her husband, John. Later, she owned and operated Corner Deli in Belleville, N.J., with John and ultimately became president of Camara Enterprises. Elaine pretended to be retired but was always available to help family and friends with her advice, knowledge, experience, and trade contacts as recently as last month.

A hard-working and detail-oriented woman, she excelled at keeping her business, home, and garden precisely in all aspects. She was known for her authentic Italian cuisine and for sharing her recipe secrets. She enjoyed socializing with friends and neighbors. Elaine and her husband, John, were inseparable and worked jointly on complex and simple projects, each of their skills complimenting the other. Elaine remained active working around her house until the beginning of this November.

Many will remember Elaine for her creativity, problem-solving, generosity, listening, and love of conversation. She welcomed all who dropped by with a seat at the kitchen table and plenty of conversation. Elaine lived an active, meaningful life with a purpose for each day. Her family and friends will deeply miss her.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation on Wednesday, November 30, from 5 - 8 P.M. at Higgins and Bonner Echo Lake Funeral Home, 582 Springfield Ave, Westfield. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, December 1, at St Lucy's Church, Newark. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Westfield.

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