Donald Anthony Ciotta

Donald Anthony Ciotta, born on September 1, 1934, in Plainfield, New Jersey, passed away on March 21, 2025, in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service.

Don enjoyed a fulfilling career as an educator, contributing over 35 years to the Branchburg Public School System. His passion for teaching reflected his commitment to shaping the lives of young minds. A proud graduate of Plainfield High School, Don showcased his athletic abilities as a star center fielder on the Cardinal baseball team. He furthered his education with a Bachelor's Degree from Monmouth University and later earned a Master's Degree in Education from The College of New Jersey.

In addition to his academic achievements, Don served in the United States Army in the Medic Unit, an experience that prepared him for a subsequent role as an EMT in Plainfield, New Jersey. This commitment to service was a hallmark of his character.

Throughout his life, Don took great pride in his personal pursuits. He was proud of the house he built with his own two hands on Britton Drive in Flemington, NJ, along with his wife, Mary Jo, a testament to his skill and determination. He was known for his pristine yard, which featured a bountiful collection 60 fruit trees, tomato plants, and a vegetable garden. Among his accomplishments was his ability to take care of nearly anything with a motor and any task around the house, including electrical work, carpentry, and plumbing. He cherished car rides with his wife in their convertible, listening to 'Country Roads' on their way to Frenchtown, NJ, where he found joy in the simple pleasures of life. A self-described "food lover,” Don delighted in both preparing and enjoying good meals, which often centered around cherished moments with family.

Family was the center of Don's universe. He shared a deep bond with his wife of 52 years, the late Mary Jo (Kashuba) Ciotta, who predeceased him in 2021. Together, they built a loving household and made the most selfless act by adopting two children from Bogota, Colombia (David & Jennifer). Don is survived by his son, David and daughter-in-law, Jackie Ciotta of Little Silver, NJ, and most cherished grandchildren Anthony, Brianna, Veronica, and Catalina Ciotta. He is also survived by his daughter, Jennifer Ciotta and son-in-law, Craig Fitzsimmons of Rhinebeck, NY. Don is remembered by his brother, Robert Ciotta of Princeton, NJ and many nieces, nephews, cousins and adoring family. In addition to Mary Jo, Don was predeceased by his son, Mark Ciotta, as well as his parents, Angelo and Susan (Finelli) Ciotta and his brother, Julian Ciotta.

Don’s happiest times were sharing his countless hobbies with his wife, family and friends. He enjoyed numerous rounds of golf including at their vacation home in Myrtle Beach. He was an avid collector of Lionel trains and history books, with a focus on World War II. Don was never at a loss to talk about his beloved New York Yankees. Yet, his greatest joy was playing poker with family and friends, a game that he would teach all his grandchildren as a legacy they will take with them forever.

Don Ciotta will be remembered for his kindness, his generous spirit, and his endless love for family and friends. He leaves a lasting impact on all who were fortunate enough to know him, and he will be dearly missed. The life lesson Donald and Mary Jo was straightforward: love each other, cherish your family, and share that love with them every day. The era may end but the lesson will live on forever.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, March 27, 2025 at 11:00 am at The Oratory Church of St. Anthony of Padua, 27 Oratory Way, Red Bank NJ 07701. A Celebration of Life will follow at Buona Sera Italian Restaurant in Red Bank NJ following the Mass for everyone. Entombment will be held privately at a later date at St. Magdalen Mausoleum in Flemington, NJ. There are no calling hours.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff of Sunrise at Shrewsbury that provided exceptional care during the more than two years that Don was living there.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington NJ 08822. For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.