Leroy William Emory (“Pete” to close friends and family), 77 years old, entered into eternal rest on 3/27/18 while surrounded by his devoted wife and family after fighting a courageous battle against an aggressive form of lung cancer. Pete was born in Newark, NJ and grew up in St. Mary’s Orphanage until the age of 16. He lived in Newark a total of 63 years before moving to Old Bridge, NJ with his wife. The couple has resided in Old Bridge since 2003.

Pete worked hard his entire life for M & T Chemical, Naparano Metal, Burry Biscuit, Egyptian Lacquer and finally at Sherwin Williams for nearly 25 years until he retired. Pete is survived by his wife of 50 years JoAnn McGrath Emory, his son Peter Emory and wife Holly, his daughter Michelle Emory Carinha and husband Manny, his daughter Cathleen Emory Lombardo, his grandchildren Tiffany Carinha, Christen Carinha, Thomas Lombardo, Peter Emory Jr, Michael Emory, Taylor Binkley, Mia Emory, Sofia Emory and Zoey Emory as well as countless extended family members and friends.

Pete was a dedicated family man that devoted every waking moment to making things “A1 perfect” for those he loved. Pete made friends everywhere he went and welcomed everyone into his life. He loved nothing more than to sit beside his loving wife with a yard full of family and friends enjoying a barbecue on a warm sunny day. Pete enjoyed spoiling his dogs, horse races, bowling, watching the weather, having a Budweiser beer at Buddies Tavern and working in his beautiful yard. He was a lover of music, always ready to dance like no one was watching and believed in the power of laughter. His larger than life personality touched everyone that knew him. He will be deeply missed.

Funeral services will be Wednesday 8:45am from the Carmen F. Spezzi Funeral Home 15 Cherry Lane, Parlin with a 9:30am mass at St. Bernadette’s R.C. Church. A burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington. Calling hours at the funeral home will be Tuesday from 3pm to 8pm. Letters of condolence to the family, completed arrangements and directions may be found at www.Spezzifuneralhome.com.