Barbara Jean Tomasula

Barbara Jean Tomasula, 76, of Toms River, NJ, passed away on Friday, July 21st at HMH Ocean University Medical Center in Brick, NJ, from complications related to cancer. Born to the late Albert and Dorothy Donatacci, August, 7th, 1946, Barbara was 1 of 4 children. She is predeceased by her parents, and her brother Girard.

Raised in Hoboken, NJ, Barbara attended Woodbridge High School. She moved to Manchester, NJ in the early 1970’s to raise her family. She was a quiet, steadfast, and devoted mother to Cari Ann Braen (Ricky Braen), Scott Tomasula (Pattie Smith), and Shannon Tomasula (Del Sasso), and a generous, doting, and extremely loving Nana to her four grandchildren - Cody, Justin, Lea and Alexis.

Upon retiring from her 30+ years of service within the Kokes Organization of Whiting, NJ, in which she worked her way up from Administrative Assistant, to Human Resources and Accounting Dept Manager, Barbara moved into the Lake Ridge Active Adult Community in Toms River. She enjoyed spending time with a large, lively group of friends there; some of her favorite activities included weekly Mahjong games, gatherings with the Wine Tasting Club, monthly Bunco games, and other clubhouse organized activities. She enjoyed beautiful friendships within her community there, of which her family is deeply grateful.

Barbara was a cat lover, who enjoyed traveling, musical theater trips, visits to botanical gardens, and going to Atlantic City. Above all things, Barbara was happiest when she was spending time with family. She was an incredibly generous, supportive, and loving force within her family. Her grandchildren were her true pride and joy.

Barbara leaves behind her 3 children (and their spouses), 4 grandchildren, her sister Susan Dontacci of Little Rock, AR, and a group of devoted friends and loved ones.

A private gathering will be held on Sunday, July 30th for family and friends to honor Barbara, and celebrate her life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barbara’s name to SAVE Animal Rescue of Toms River, NJ, or the charity of your choice.