Ralph A. Della Badia, Sr.

Ralph A. Della Badia, Sr., a devoted family man, skilled craftsman, and proud American, passed away on June 15, 2026, in Sergeantsville, New Jersey, at the age of 89. Born on June 13, 1937, in New Rochelle, New York, Ralph lived a life marked by dedication, loyalty, and an unwavering commitment to both his loved ones and his community.

A graduate of Sacred Heart High School in New Rochelle, Ralph moved to New Jersey to raise his family, first residing in Paterson and Piscataway before settling in Sergeantsville in 2003. His career as a commercial truck driver was distinguished by his proud membership in the Teamsters Local 701 and 641 chapters. Throughout his professional life, he drove for Eastern Express, Johnson & Johnson, and retired from Preston Trucking in Woodbridge, New Jersey. Ralph’s over-the-road routes often took him from New Jersey to Texas, reflecting a tireless work ethic and a spirit of adventure. After retiring in 1995 at the age of 58, he pursued his passion for craftsmanship by attending welding school at Middlesex County Community College, further honing his remarkable skills.

Ralph was a simple man, often described as a “Man’s Man” who embodied kindness, generosity, and fearless loyalty. A proud American and former member of the United States Naval Reserves, he also dedicated himself to local service as a former member of the Possumtown Fire Company in Piscataway and a current member of the Sergeantsville Fire Company. He was a “home guy” who cherished tending meticulously to his lawn and property, and found joy in listening to old country and bluegrass music as well as WDVR local radio.

His proudest accomplishments were many, notably his masterful ability to build and repair furniture and cabinets, a testament to his status as a “Master Craftsman.” Ralph’s talent extended beyond furniture—he was also a gifted house builder whose handiwork touched many aspects of home and life.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Mary (Rizzardi) Della Badia; his beloved wife, Margaret (Seiler) Della Badia, who passed away in 2006; his son, Thomas Anthony Della Badia in 1961, his brother, Frank Della Badia; and his companion, Geraldine Marty, who died in 2017.

He is lovingly survived by his daughter, Catherine Della Badia of Sergeantsville, New Jersey; his son, Ralph Anthony Della Badia Jr. and daughter-in-law, Kelley of Frenchtown, New Jersey; and his daughter, Renee and son-in-law, Thomas Azelby of Tequesta, Florida. He is also survived by his four grandchildren, Thomas Anthony Della Badia, Catherine Azelby, Thomas Joseph Azelby, and Theresa Marie Azelby; along with several nieces and nephews, especially his nephew, Vincent Lanteigne of Wayne NJ, who carry forward his memory.

A visitation to honor Ralph’s life will take place on June 19, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, located at 147 Main Street, Flemington, New Jersey. There will be a Fireman's Service at 6:40 pm.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in his memory on June 20, 2026, beginning at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Victories Church, 1005 County Road 519, Frenchtown, New Jersey. Following the Mass, a graveside service will be held at Rosemont Cemetery, 100 Kingwood Stockton Road, Stockton, New Jersey, starting at 12:00 PM.

For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ralph's memory may be made to the Delaware Township Fire Company, PO Box 87, Sergeantsville NJ 08557-0087 or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 105 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105-3678 or by clicking the link below.

Ralph A. Della Badia, Sr.’s life was one of steadfast dedication, skilled craftsmanship, and profound love for his family and country. He will be remembered with great respect and affection by all who knew him.