Obituary of Margaret Mary Dondiego
Margaret “Sue” Dondiego passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, and friend whose strength, warmth, and spirited personality touched all who knew her.
Sue was born on January 27, 1934, in Bound Brook, New Jersey. She spent many years in Middlesex, New Jersey, where she raised her family and built a life rooted in love and community before later moving to Plant City, Florida. Most recently, she returned to New Jersey to live with her daughter in Piscataway, where she was once again surrounded by the family she cherished so deeply.
Sue shared 62 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Bernard Dondiego, who predeceased her in 2015. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, and unwavering commitment. Their home was a place of warmth and welcome, not only for their own family, but for so many others in need.
Sue was a proud co-founder of the New Jersey Foster Parents Association, now known as Embrella. Alongside her husband, she dedicated more than three decades to fostering children, opening her heart and home to over 35 children. Her compassion and advocacy made a lasting difference in countless lives and helped shape a stronger, more supportive community for foster families across New Jersey.
She had a gift for bringing people together and found great joy in the simple pleasures of life – especially playing cards with friends and family, where laughter was always part of the game. Sue also loved to travel, embracing new places and experiences with curiosity and enthusiasm. She especially enjoyed listening to music, from the heartfelt sounds of country music to the timeless beauty of opera.
Above all, Sue was a loving and devoted mother to her three daughters, Mary Beth, Mary Grace, and Mary Sue, and proud and cherished grandmother to her granddaughter, Alyssa. Her family was her greatest joy and the center of her world.
She will be remembered for no-nonsense strength, her generous heart, and her deep values.
Sue’s life was a beautiful examples of kindness, dedication, and love. She will be deeply missed and forever remember.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made towards the Bernard and Sue Dondiego Opportunity Grant in memory of Sue Dondiego at www.Embrella.org
The Dondiego Family would like to thank the nurses and saff of Robert Wood Johnson Visiting Nurse Association for providing the upmost care of their mother, Sue.