Morris Plains, NJ.  Marjorie Carolee ‘Carol’ Cafarelli (Bangiola) of Morris Plains New Jersey, died peacefully on January 7, 2026 at Morristown Medical Center surrounded by her family after battling health issues.

Born on February 14, 1941 in Denville, New Jersey, Carol was the daughter of Marjorie and Nicholas Bangiola, who built and operated Bangiola’s Deli and the adjacent gas station and auto repair shop. She attended Montclair State University, and graduated with a degree in English while also singing and participating in local theater productions.  She married James McKenna of Morristown, moving to Morris Plains and having three daughters.  She eventually remarried to Rocco Cafarelli.

Carol started her career as a legal secretary and finished it working on clinical trials for Merck Pharmaceuticals. She and Rocco enjoyed many past times over the years, most notably fishing for striped bass off the beach in Cape Cod and attending concerts as she was an avid lover of many music genres, including Irish, country, southern and classic rock. After retiring, she loved attending parades and estate sales, and collecting rare books.  She was a frequent patron of all local libraries. She loved animals and was a supporter of Saint Hubert’s and always adopted her beloved pets from local shelters.

Of all her interests, Carol was widely known for her talents as a baker. She loved baking as a way to show her love for family and friends. She joined Succasunna United Methodist Church and loved coming to the 9 AM service to hear Angie and the band play as well as attending the Tuesday Afternoon Bible Study with a freshly baked treat. She also loved baking and cooking with Maggie and sending goodies home to her beloved grandchildren.

She is survived by daughters Margaret Rose McKenna and partner Mark Richards, Angeline Marie Stierch and her husband Daniel, grandchildren McKenna Rose and Brady James, and her beloved cat Hoover. She also had great affection for her home health aides, especially Blanca Rodriguez and Bella Vera.

She is predeceased by her parents, first born daughter Carol Elizabeth, son-in-law Robert Bohrer, and her beloved husband Rocco.

Her funeral service will be held at the Succasunna United Methodist Church on Tuesday, January 13th at 4 pm.  Following her service, there will be a repast at the Church Fellowship Hall. She will be buried at Restland Memorial Park in East Hanover.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a local animal shelter.

Arrangements are by the Davis and Hepplewhite Funeral Home, 96 Main Street, Succasunna, NJ 973-584-7264.

Carol will be deeply missed and forever loved. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.