It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Samuel (Sam) John DeNoia, who left us on January 21st, 2025, at the age of 64. He was a devoted husband, loving brother, witty friend, adoring companion to children, and a believer in Jesus Christ.
Sam was born on March 25th, 1960, in Summit, NJ, and was the 3rd child of Americo (Rick) and Angelina DeNoia. He graduated from Summit High School and then went on to pursue a career in the food business. After graduating top of his class from the French Culinary Institute In New York City, he worked at several restaurants and catering operations. Some years later he switched careers and went into the IT business, after having received a degree with high honors from DeVry Institute of Technology. He then started his own IT business. He enjoyed working independently for several years before early retirement. Although he excelled in both the food business and the IT world, a disability prevented him from continuing in either vocation. However, his wife and friends continued to benefit from his culinary expertise and IT knowledge.
Sam met the love of his life, Gina DeNoia, in culinary school. They were married just shy of 29 years. Together with his wife, he catered meals for many events in the early years of their marriage. They did not have children, but they did have fur babies whom they loved. Despite not having kids, many young people were drawn to Sam, as he had a way of connecting with them and making them laugh.
He was personable with everyone he met. He had a good sense of humor and enjoyed making people happy. He also took pleasure in helping people in need by assisting them with computer issues, grocery shopping, and providing meals for those that were sick. In the last few years, disability kept him more housebound, which was hard for him, but he still enjoyed seeing anyone that came to their home.
Sam was a natural at anything he put his mind to, and he excelled at everything for which he had a passion – sports, music, trivia, cooking, computers and more. He was known for his wit, charm, and his willingness to help others, when he was able.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Americo (Rick) and Angelina Riola DeNoia, and by his older brother, Americo (Rick jr.) DeNoia. He is survived by his wife, Gina DeNoia; sister, Joann Stefan and brother-in-law Bill Stefan; sister-in-law, Janet DeNoia; nieces and nephews, listed in chronological order, Chris Stefan, Aimee Gross, Billy Stefan, Melissa DeNoia & Douglas DeNoia; as well as two great nephews, Jake and Matthew Gross; and by cousins as well. His family and friends will miss him dearly.
There will be two Celebration of Life Services. The first will be held at Anchor Church, in McKinney, TX located on 3921 Community Ave. The service in TX will be held on April 4th, 2025 @ 4:00pm, followed by a catered dinner at the church. The second service will be
held at Long Hill Chapel in Chatham, NJ, where they were married, located on 525 Shunpike Rd. The service in NJ will be held on June 28th @ 10:30am, followed by a lunch at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations can be made to Anchor Church, in McKinney, TX - https://myanchorchurch.churchcenter.com/giving
Sam will be missed but never forgotten. May he rest in peace.
Joe Bogdan March 08, 2025
Friend Granbury , Texas
Sam was a great friend and had a way of making everyone feel welcomed and appreciated. He also had a unique way for making kids feel loved and comfortable. He will be missed by so many…
Alicia Moore March 08, 2025
Friend Mckinney , Texas
Sam was such a joy to all who knew him and will be greatly missed. I'll always remember how good he was with the kids and his sense of humor. Love you Gina! I'm here for you whatever you need🫂
Marianela Nùñez March 07, 2025
Friend Tarrytown , New York
Saddened to learn of Sam’s transition to a better life. He was a charming, admirable man. He will be missed.
Debra Engle April 02, 2025
Friend of Gina’s Allen , Texas
I only had the pleasure of meeting Sam once. But he left a lasting impression on me as he was very kind and took time to greet me in his home when I came to pick up some Christmas cupcakes that Gina had made. I was immediately attracted to their home and how comfortable it felt. Not only that, but I interrupted their dinner and the smell of the food was wonderful, and I made mention that “this is definitely a chef’s home”. It’s not often you visit someone in their home and you immediate feel right athome there yourself. From the first time I met Gina I really liked her. Her cooking impressed me very much, and I took the opportunity to get some of her baked items, Christmas goodies and a birthday cake for my husband. They were absolutely delicious. I was so sorry to hear of Sam’s passing as I could see he and Gina had a great life together. My heart goes out to Gina and Sam’s family for their loss. I will be keeping them in my prayers as I have been for the last few months. Blessings, all my best, Debbie