Marlene (Scarabino) O'Grady

Mrs. Marlene O'Grady (née Scarabino), 75, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, at home in Holmdel, New Jersey surrounded by her family. Born on February 2, 1950, in Brooklyn, New York, Marlene lived a life marked by devotion to her family, her faith, and her community. Marlene began her academic journey at Staten Island Community College, where she earned a degree in Chemistry. During her time there, she worked in the mailroom—remarkably as the only woman—demonstrating early on the strength and determination that would define her life. She later pursued a career as a computer programmer before choosing to dedicate herself fully to raising her family. Once her children were older, Marlene returned to the workforce as a computer teacher at Holy Family School, where she shared her knowledge and passion for technology with younger generations.

 Her commitment to Holy Family Roman Catholic Church extended far beyond the classroom. For over 15 years, Marlene taught computer classes at the school and played an integral role in organizing and running the parish’s annual carnivals. She also served as a lector during weekly Masses, offering her voice and presence to enrich the spiritual life of the community she so deeply loved. Marlene’s vibrant personality shone through in every aspect of her life. She was generous with her time and talents, passionate about everything she undertook, strong in both spirit and conviction, and deeply dedicated to those around her, including all her extra children that Momma O welcomed into her home. Her hobbies reflected this same energy—she delighted in crafting and playing games like MahJong and Poker. A devoted fan of the New York Yankees, she rarely missed a game. She also enjoyed puzzles, brain teasers, Legos, and cooking—activities that often brought together family and friends for laughter-filled gatherings. She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 52 years, Kevin; their three children: Michael and his wife Danielle; Kathryn and her husband Jimmy; Mark and his wife Kristen; and five cherished grandchildren who were the absolute loves of her life: Kevin, Molly, Juliana, Kiara, and Brynn; and her best friend/sister, Joanie McAvoy. Marlene was predeceased by her parents Frank and Mary Scarabino, and her sister Cecilia Dunne. 

Family and friends are invited to visit on Sunday, October 12, 2025  from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Shore Point Funeral Home and Cremation Services Inc., 3269 State Highway/Route 35 North, Hazlet, New Jersey   07730.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 AM on Monday, October 13, 2025, at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, 727 Highway 36, Union Beach, New Jersey. Entombment will follow at St. Gabriel Cemetery, 549 Route 520/Newman Springs Road, Marlboro, New Jersey   07746. In lieu of flowers, donations in loving memory of Marlene to either Holy Family Church, PO Box 56, Keyport, New Jersey or www.stjude.org. For more information, directions or to send condolences to the family, please visit www.shorepointfh.com.

Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched with kindness, strength, humor, and unwavering love. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.

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