Marlene Carol Gagliardi (nee Kattaron) passed away peacefully on Monday, June 26th, 2023 surrounded by her family.
Born on November 26, 1946 in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, she was 76 years old. Beloved wife of 55 years to the late John J. Gagliardi, Loving mother to Gina Postiglione (David) Debra Lunt (Richard) Cherished “Nonna” to Giana Cucchi (Alexander), Alexa Postiglione, Tyler Lunt & Natalie Lunt.
Marlene was a class-act; beautiful and courageous in every way. She was the matriarch of her family and a passionate successful businesswoman; both of which she found great pride and joy in.
Marlene graduated from West Catholic Girls High School in 1964 and pursued a career in cosmetology.
In 1970, she opened Total Image hair salon. However, her love was always Fashion. Marlene went on to open Marlene’s Dress Shop in Collingswood, NJ in 1983, celebrating 40 years in business this year.
Throughout the decades, Marlene has had an eye for all of the best fashion trends and loved dressing women, always making them look their best. A powerful and stylish businesswoman that many admired. She will be truly missed by all who loved her.
Dear Gina, Debbie, and children,
There are no words to describe the immense sorrow your family is experiencing at this time. Losing both your father, the patriarch, and your mother, the matriarch, within just 20 days is truly heartbreaking.
As the new matriarchs of the Gagliardi family, you, Gina and Debbie, are strong, beautiful leaders. It is essential for you to stand strong together, love one another, and rely on your loving family to support each other during this difficult time.love you all.
Cheryl and John Tisa
June 29, 2023 | Sicklerville, NJ | Friend
The passing of Marlene reminds me of one of my favorite poems “A Reason, A Season or A Lifetime”. Normally a person comes into your life and fulfills a need you have even if just for a short time. Yet Marlene managed to provide me with all three.
She treated me like one of her own daughters growing up the sleepovers, endless days/nights of swimming , day trips, visits to the salon, Collingswood day events, pinball/Nintendo fun and so much more. She extended a kindness to me when I needed it mostif only for “A Season”
Watching Marlene as a business women growing up was amazing- I saw a trail blazer paving the way for women in business first hand. Her extraordinary ability to pivot from one successful business to the next was remarkable. it was instrumental to me and has served me well in my business “A Reason.”
Last but not least, I’m eternally grateful to Marlene for providing me with one of my “Lifetimes” when she created Debbie my lifelong best friend.
Marlene, I’m thankful that I got to share these words of gratitude with you just a couple of weeks ago. Too many times we lose someone and don’t get to share our thoughts. You asked me to promise you that I would always find the time to keep my friendship with Debbie strong- it’s a vow I intend to keep.
I hope you and John are hosting one of your legendary parties in heaven with Aunt Margie and other loved ones.
Debbie and Gina, my heart aches for you. May the love and support from your families carry you through this difficult time. Rest assured that you have yet another angel watching over you.
Georgia G
July 04, 2023 | Friend
