Dear Editor:
On Sunday, September 9, The Grand Dame of Hudson County passed away at her home in Secaucus. At the age of 101 years, Caroline Guarini had lived through the entire Twentieth Century where she was witness to extraordinary events and historic happenings. Her life was filled with joy, happiness and love, which she shared abundantly with her family, friends and passersby. Her death was a blessing in time, for had she lived two more days to the vicious attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, Caroline Guarini would have been overwhelmed with grief and overwrought in mourning by those tragic events. Although she had lived through every major war and battle in which the United States fought over the past 100 years, the horrific attacks on America would have certainly shaken her and taken their toll on this outstanding woman.
Born on March 25, 1900 in Niagara Falls, New York, she attended a convent school in Ontario, Canada and after graduation worked in her parent’s furniture business. In 1923 she married Frank J. Guarini, Sr. who was a well-known and highly respected attorney in Jersey City. A Lieutenant in the U.S. Army during World War I, her husband was a Corporation Counsel in Jersey City and a New Jersey State Assemblyman. Together they enjoyed a life in politics. The mother of former Congressman Frank J. Guarini Jr. and Mrs. Marie Mangin, Caroline was the Lady who personified the very meaning of the word.
The adage, "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder," rang true for everyone who had the splendid opportunity of meeting Caroline Guarini. Being in her company was a distinct pleasure. From the very first time I met Caroline many years ago, I was always in awe of her. I was so proud she called me her friend. I respected, admired and loved her for the very fine woman she was. Sparkling blue eyes and a soft, soothing voice held you spellbound. Sincere. Caring. Gracious. Kind. Charming. Sophisticated. Loving. Caroline Guarini was every child’s dream of a Fairy Godmother!
Caroline Guarini was active in many charitable and civic organizations including the Dante Alighieri Society. Concerned for the needs of the less fortunate, she spent countless hours delivering baskets of food and toys to them during the Holiday Season. She was a volunteer at local hospitals. She sang in her church choir. And she played the piano. On her 100th Birthday on March 25, 2000, she played the theme song from the move "Dr. Zhivago" on an internationally broadcast television show. Caroline Guarini had full control and use of all her faculties to the end.
Fiercely proud of her Italian heritage, she eagerly looked forward to the Annual Salute to the Admiral of the Seas. Since the First Hudson County Christopher Columbus Day Parade on the second Sunday in October 1950 through the Year 2000 Parade, this charming and lovely lady graced the Reviewing Stand, waving a hearty hello and sending silent kisses to her many friends and admirers attending the annual autumn celebration. Even those who did not recognize the fashionably attired woman were taken in by her stately presence. Among the scores of dignitaries and public officials, Caroline Guarini was the jewel in the crowd. Unfortunately, Caroline Guarini will not participate in this year’s Christopher Columbus Day Parade on Sunday, October 14, but her spirit will be there encouraging marchers and onlookers alike to take pride in what Columbus achieved. She also took unabashed pride in the Silver Medallion commemorating the 500th Anniversary of the discovery of the Americas by Columbus in 1492, which was presented to her in 1992. It was always by her side. Because of her long time dedication and participation in celebrating Columbus Day, Caroline Guarini was honored by the Christopher Columbus Foundation with the Edward F. Zampella "Voice of Columbus Award," in 1999.
A world traveler, Caroline Guarini walked with Captains and Kings. Queens and Princesses. Presidents. Governors. Mayors. But she was most happy in the company of everyday people. She had no pretense. She had a great sense of humor. And was down to earth. She said she had no regrets. With her death, an Elegant Era comes to a close. Hudson County has lost a caring Matriarch. But Caroline Guarini, the Grand Dame of the Twentieth Century, will live on in the minds and hearts of the thousands of people whose lives she touched, mine joyously among them, far into the New Millennium.
Anthony L. Grazioso