Kathleen Caravella

Kathleen Schaefer Caravella died peacefully at her home in Manahawkin, NJ on December 6, 2016, surrounded by family. Kathleen “Keenie” was born in Rahway, NJ on April 16, 1933 to Arthur and Helen Murphy Schaefer. Kathleen lived with her family in Rahway, NJ until 2001, when she and Red moved to Manahawkin, NJ.  She was a member of St. Mary’s Parish in Rahway, NJ and St. Mary’s of the Pines in Manahawkin, NJ. Kathleen and Alfred spent their winters in Fort Myers Beach, FL for many years, where they were members of Church of Ascension Parish. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and family, reading, playing cards, and beating everyone at Jeopardy. Over the years she was a volunteer for a number of organizations, including the Girl Scouts, the Hospital Auxiliary and the Rahway Jr. Service League.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Frances Schaefer Williams, grandson, Ethan Schaefer Barton, and son-in-law Barry Hotz.

She is survived by the love of her life, Alfred “Red” Michael Caravella, whom she married on July 14, 1951, their children and their families; Michael A. Caravella (Yvonne), Ellen C. Dazet (Daniel), Patricia C. Barton (Timothy), Christy M. Poles (Steven), Francis A. Caravella (Suzanne), Kathleen Caravella, Linda Hotz, and Peter V. Caravella (Shelly), her brothers; Arthur and William Schaefer, 18 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews and in-laws.

The family is extremely grateful to the many friends, extended family, and neighbors who have offered their love and support during this time.

A Memorial Gathering will take place on Friday, December 9, 2016 from 12:45pm to 1:30pm at Maxwell-Tobie Funeral Home, 573 Mill Creek Rd, Manahawkin, NJ. A Mass of Christian Burial, will follow, 2pm at St. Mary’s Church, Barnegat. Inurnment immediately after at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Manahawkin.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in her memory to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org/donate