In Loving Memory of Alphonse Thomas “Al” Annone

November 24, 1931 – September 27, 2025

Alphonse Thomas “Al” Annone passed away peacefully, surrounded by immediate

family, on September 27, 2025, at the age of 93. Born in Harrison, New Jersey on

November 24, 1931, Al was the youngest of eight in a close-knit Italian family that was

firmly rooted in tradition, faith and hard work. 

His parents, Giovanni and Palma, immigrated to the United States bringing with them

the values that Al would carry with him throughout his life. He proudly served his country

during the Korean War, stationed in Alaska, where he developed a love for the outdoors

and made lifelong friendships and memories.

After his service, Al began what became a decades-long career as a route bread

salesman for Pechter’s Baking Co. in Harrison, New Jersey. Over the years, customers

along his route knew him not just as their bread man, but as their friend. He had a rare

gift for striking up a conversation with anyone, putting people instantly at ease and

leaving them smiling. Years in the bread business also gave him a discerning palate. Al

knew good bread, and never hesitated to tell you exactly what he thought.

In 1957 Al married the love of his life, Doris Annone. Like the home he grew up in, the

home they built together was loving and full of good food. After Doris’s passing, Al found

comfort and companionship with his dear friend Gloria, with whom he shared many

happy years traveling and spending quality time with their beloved families and friends.

Al carried a generous, joyful spirit that was infectious. He loved people, animals, and all

of life’s simple pleasures – a good meal, a great story, and the company of others. He

had a gift for connecting with people, even strangers, as well as a profound appreciation

for life. His calm strength offered assurance that you could always count on him.

He is survived by his daughters, Sharon Ciulla and Lisa Taranto, his grandchildren,

Andrew Taranto, Evan Taranto, Thomas Ciulla, and Allison Ciulla; and many nieces,

nephews, and extended family who loved him dearly.

We remember Al not just for how long he lived, but for how he lived life fully each day,

with kindness, humility, and heart. Just as Al’s warmth filled every room he entered, his

spirit will live on in every shared meal where his stories are told.

A Funeral Mass is scheduled for Saturday, November 15 th at 11:00 AM Eastern time at

St. Johns Catholic Church, Lakehurst New Jersey.