Charlene Angela Guerra

Charlene Angela Guerra died peacefully surrounded by her family on Friday, Oct. 23, 2021, at her home in Dingmans Ferry, Pa., after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 73.

She was the beloved wife and best friend of Joseph Guerra. She is survived by her loving sister Donna DeMatteo; sister-in-law, Patricia Sikora (Edward); nieces/nephews, Debra DePaolo (Adam), Kathleen Nese (Mario), Kevin Sikora (Jennifer), Mark Sikora; and known as “Tee-Tee” to her great-nieces/nephews, Alexis Herzick (Nate), Nicolas and Gianna Nese, Luke and Quinn DePaolo, and Emma Sikora; as well as numerous relatives and friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, Alfred and Marie DeMatteo; and sister Allison DeMatteo.

Charlene was born in Boonton, N.J., and graduated high school from Morris Catholic. She went on to graduate from Kean University (formerly Newark State College) with a degree in education and worked as an elementary school teacher for several years before changing her career path. She had a love of teaching and passion for reading. Charlene changed careers and finally retired as a detective from the Morris County of New Jersey Prosecutors Office; Charlene was the first woman homicide detective in Morris County. She was interviewed and debuted on Women & the Badge TV Series. She participated in solving many cases throughout her 20-year career. Through her experiences as a detective, she always gave sound advice to ensure those important to her were safe.

Charlene had a very exciting and fulfilling career, but retirement did not lack excitement and fulfillment. She became a caregiver to her great-nephew; took up golf with her girlfriends; travelled to the Caribbean Islands, Europe and Cape May with her beloved Joseph; read many books in her library and focused what was really important to her — family. She always had a great outlook on life and had a smile for everyone. Charlene will be deeply missed but her spirit will continue to live.

Family will receive friends at Stroyan Funeral Home, 405 West Harford St., Milford, Pa., on Friday, Nov. 19, from 4 to 6 p.m. A memorial service will be held at the funeral home on Nov. 19, at 6 p.m. with the Rev. John Boyle officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org) and the Children’s Cancer Fund (childrenscancerfund.org).