Obituary of Carmen J Traverso

Carmen Traverso, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, unexpectedly passed away on Monday, September 5, 2022, as the result of a vehicle accident. Known to many as ‘the rock of the family,’ she could always be relied upon for her strength, devotion, generosity, and tireless support.

Carmen, 78, was born on June 6, 1944, in Anasco, Puerto Rico (PR) to the late Francisco Matias and Carmen Mendoza. From her humble background, she ventured to Dover, NJ at the early age of 16 to pursue greater opportunities. Although Carmen was limited in terms of her network, education, and work experience, she was fiercely determined and had an undeniable work ethic. Quickly, she learned English and earned a living to support herself, but her commitment and financial discipline went far beyond this. One-by-one, Carmen assisted her family members in Puerto Rico, many of whom later joined her in building a new life in the United States.

Shortly after Carmen moved to NJ, she met ─ and later married in July of 1968 ─ the love of her life, Pablo Traverso. During their 54 years together, she and Pablo demonstrated a level of kindness, youthful energy, and generosity that knew no bounds. They regularly welcomed family and friends to celebrate holidays, play games, and enjoy home-cooked meals. Carmen’s passion for travel was also shared by Pablo, vacationing in the US and abroad at destinations, such as Italy, France, Spain, Mexico, Columbia, and several Caribbean islands.

From Carmen and Pablo’s union, two children were born; Wanda and Diana. Both daughters have been inspired by their mom’s unconditional love, wisdom, and ability to dually serve as a role model and friend. For 40 plus years, Carmen was employed at Howmet Aerospace Corporation and was an active member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Dover, NJ. She served as a Deaconess, treasurer, and secretary, and taught bible lessons while often blessing church members with meals.

In addition to her loving husband, Pablo Traverso, and two daughters, Wanda Traverso Coley (Derrick) and Diana Garsia (Scott, decd.), Carmen is survived by four grandchildren:  Talehia Traverso, Derrien Coley, Raquel Garsia, and Ethan Garsia; eight siblings: Jose Matias, Jacinto Matias, Carlos Matias, Amelida Agront, Maria Perez, Victoria Matias, Felicidad Casapulla, and Heriberto Matias; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and other close relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by three of her siblings: Manuel Matias, Santos Matias, and Blanca O’Brien.

Carmen’s family will forever have fond memories of her passion for God, family, and living life to the fullest.  

Visitation 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Wednesday, September 14, 2022 at Tuttle Funeral Home, 272 Route 10, Randolph.

Funeral Service 10:30 AM, Thursday, September 15, 2022 also at Tuttle Funeral Home.

Interment at Locust Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations are being accepted to buy gifts for children on Christmas. “Christmas presents for children in need”

Go fund me link: https://gofund.me/7f8a795a

Humbly Submitted,

The Family