Janet Dorothy DeMauro

Janet “Ava” Dorothy DeMauro, 74, of Toms River, NJ, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. She was a devoted and amazing wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Known to those close to her as “Ava.”

Born on February 26, 1951, in Brooklyn, New York, Ava was the cherished daughter of the late Dorothy Krause Sedler and John Sedler. After leaving Brooklyn, she lived for many years on Long Island before eventually settling in Toms River to be closer to family. Ava was a respected and adored school bus driver for many years, forming lasting friendships with her colleagues.

Ava was truly the heart of her family, the strength and glue that held everyone together. Her unwavering love was one of a kind. She lived her life with grace and boundless dedication to her family, always putting others before herself. She was the wind beneath their wings.

Ava is predeceased by her beloved parents and her dear son, Daniel DeMauro. She is survived by her loving husband, Gustave DeMauro Jr., with whom she shared a once-in-a-lifetime love. Every day they told one another: “I love you more today than yesterday, but not as much as tomorrow.” Their love story was truly extraordinary.

Ava is also survived by her daughter, Gina DeMauro; her sister, Linda Grimes; and her treasured grandchildren, Jennie Campbell, Richie Campbell, and Alison Palmer, who were her pride and joy.

Ava had a lifelong love for The Wizard of Oz, a story that echoed the way she lived and loved. Just like Dorothy, she reminded us all that “there’s no place like home.” And for so many of us, Ava was exactly that, our home.

She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and unconditional love that will never be forgotten as any person who was blessed enough to know her can attest.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday July 9, 2025 at 11am at St. Justin's RC Church, Toms River, NJ.

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