Obituary of Belardino Sessa

Belardino "Bill" Sessa passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025. He was 102 years old. 

Born in New York City, to parents Paul and Damiana (Viola) Sessa, Bill attended Commerce High School before enlisting in the Navy where he served his country proudly during WWII. During his time in the Navy, he served on several ships, most notably the USS Sumter, where he was involved in many engagements in the Pacific Theater including the Philippines and several Japanese Islands.  Bill was extremely proud of his military service and was honored to attend a reunion of surviving USS Sumter service members with his wife Carmela in Las Vegas in 1997. He was later honored in 2003 when he and his shipmates received a citation and the Philippine Liberation Medal from the Ambassador from the Philippine Embassy. 

After his honorable discharge in 1945, he returned to his job at Nabisco where he worked for over 40 years. After marrying the love of his life, Carmela, he moved to Staten Island where both of his sons were born. A few years later, he moved his family to Saddle Brook NJ and in 1966 to Pompton Lakes NJ. Following his retirement from Nabisco, Bill and Carmela moved to Clearwater FL where they lived for over 20 years before moving back to NJ to be closer to family.  

Bill and Carmela made the most of retirement by traveling to places like Italy, Hawaii and Las Vegas. Bill found joy in telling stories about his experiences in the Navy. He retained his sharp mind and could retell stories in detail right to the very end of his life. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and could be seen watching his sons and grandchildren participate in sports and activities. He loved to play golf and softball. In fact, while living in FL he played for an exclusive team called the Kids & Kubs. Not only did you have to be an exceptional player to join this team, but you had to be at least 75 years old. They frequently traveled for tournaments and would often play and defeat teams with players 20 years younger. A huge NY Yankees fan, Bill hardly ever missed an inning of a game and could be found watching the Yankees even when they weren't winning. In September 2021 he was honored as the Veteran of the Game by the Yankees for his military service.  

Bill was predeceased by his parents Paul Sessa and Damiana (Viola), his wife of 69 years Carmela Sessa, his brothers Anthony & Paul Sessa and his sister Marie Cotrell.  He is survived by his sons Mark & Paul and his 6 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 17^th from 12-4pm at Bailey Funeral Home, 176 Main Street, Peapack NJ with a Funeral Service at 4pm.  A private interment will take place at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Piscataway.