Mary J. Ernst (nee Piombino), 86, of Norwood, NJ since 1968, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 surrounded by her family. She is the adored daughter of the late Joseph and Carmela Piombino. Beloved wife of Robert W. Ernst. Loving mother of Marie Rowe and husband Kevin, Robert Ernst and wife Laura, Joseph G. Ernst and wife Donna and the late Joanne Murtha and her husband Tim. Proud grandmother of Rebecca and husband Dave, Nicole, Evan, Alex, Derek, Brian, Kaitlyn, Justin, Kaylie and Brendan. Cherished “GiGi” of Logan, Trevor, Austin and Cole. Dearest sister of Anna Haytas, and the late Antoinette Calabrese, Jean Piombino and Jerry Piombino. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law Carol Thrunk and many dearly loved nieces and nephews.
Mary worked at the American Can Company in Jersey City where she met her future husband Bob. They moved to Norwood where they raised their family and made many long-lasting friendships that they treasure to this day. Mary’s greatest joy was her family and being a part of all the family gatherings. She will be forever missed.
Mary was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend and always enjoyed cooking delicious Italian meals for them. In her youth, she enjoyed the beach, reading, horseback riding and spending time with her older siblings.
The family will gather at Immaculate Conception RC Church, 211 Summit Street, Norwood, NJ on Monday, March 2, 2026 at 10 AM with a Funeral Mass to be celebrated at 11 AM. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s memory may be made to The John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack Meridian Hospital, www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org or St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org.
www.pizzifuneralhome.com