GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (March 25, 2026)(CNBNews)–Doing research we found a treasurer trove of Gloucester Catholic yearbooks posted on the Gloucester City Historical Society’s website. The first known yearbook begins with 1936. The Historical Society has every yearbook except 1937, 1938 & 1943. The Gloucester City Library may have those which the Historical Society does not have.
(photo property of George F. Cleary Jr., 1959 GCHS graduate)
The very first person in the front row is my brother George F. Cleary Jr., next to him is Vernon “Buddy” Myers. The photo is of members of the typing class that graduated in 1959, which was copied from George’s personal yearbook. Our mother, Mazie, insisted that George and I learn how to type. Those lessons paid off throughout my life, as it was a necessary skill for a reporter. George became a Morse code expert in the Army. He was stationed in Frankfort, Germany, during the time the Berlin Wall was being built by the Communists in East Germany. He and the pilot of a small airplane would fly over the Wall; George’s job was to decipher the Morse code messages being transmitted between the enemy. He would type those conversations and submit the information to his superior officer.
The Historical Society released the following remarks about the use of the data: “Below are links to yearbooks that have been digitized to date. The copyright status of these books is unknown. Access is provided for personal use only. These yearbooks may contain personal messages. Should you find anything that may be too personal or hurtful, please let us know, and we will attempt to edit out or omit those pages.
On January 27, 2026, at the age of 81, William H. “Bill” Trimmer, Sr. passed peacefully at Samaritan Hospice in Mount Holly, New Jersey. A longtime resident of Camden and Bellmawr, Bill leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and creativity.
Bill is survived by his beloved sons, William H. Trimmer, Jr. and Jason Trimmer; his siblings, Marie, Robert, and Elizabeth; and his cherished grandson, Jason Trimmer, Jr. He was predeceased by his parents, Freeman and Emma Trimmer; his brother, John; his sister, Evelyn; and his partner, Irene.
Bill was a gifted and artistic soul who enjoyed working with ceramics and leather, but his greatest passion was helping others. Known as a true jokester, he had a remarkable ability to make people laugh and feel at ease. His warmth and generosity touched many, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the devoted care team at Silver Care of Cherry Hill.
Lorrie M. DeFrates, a woman of abundant of kindness and joy, passed away on February 6, 2026, in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Born on April 23, 1963, Lorrie had a vibrant spirit and loving nature that left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She was preceded in death by her cherished father, Joseph Visco, and is survived by her mother Anna Visco
Lorrie’s life was a tapestry of love, work, and service. After graduating from Paul VI High School in 1981, she embarked on a journey of entrepreneurship and community involvement. Alongside her beloved husband, Bruce, she co-owned Bellmawr Collision. Not only did they repair cars, but they also built a strong community foundation around the business, touching the lives of many with their integrity and teamwork.
The essence of a family woman, Lorrie’s devotion to her family was unwavering. She and Bruce welcomed their children Derek and Natalie (Austin) into a home filled with love and laughter. Her role as Nonna to Georgie Joseph was one of her greatest joys. Her siblings, Kimberly Visco, her husband Michael DiFilippo, and Joe Visco, with his wife Cindy, will forever cherish the memories of their dear sister. Sisters-in-law and caretakers, Susan Laurits with her husband Igor, Joan Boaggio, and Denise Bauer, stood by her side, ensuring her last moments were as comfortable and peaceful as possible. Lorrie’s family extended beyond blood relations, and her nieces and nephews knew her as a constant source of support and unconditional love.
Lorrie’s passion for life was evident in everything she did. Her gardens were a testament to her love for beauty and growth, as she cultivated both flowers and vegetables with tender care. A master in the kitchen, she delighted family and friends with her cooking, always ready to share a meal and a moment of companionship. Her innate ability to connect with people was one of her greatest gifts. She was the friend everyone wished for, always there to lend a hand or an ear.
Her love for animals was profound. This love translated into a successful dog grooming business that catered to the needs of many furry friends over the years. The Jersey Shore held a special place in Lorrie’s heart, and her time spent there was filled with serenity and joy.
Special thanks are extended to Chantale, her dedicated aid and caretaker, who provided comfort and care during Lorrie’s final days.
There will be a visitation Friday, February 13, 2026 from 10 am to 12 pm at Earle Funeral Home 122 W. Church St., Blackwood, NJ. Memorial Service to follow. Interment private.
GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ {CNBNEWS} FEBRUARY 9, 2025.–A new single‑family home is rising in the Riverview Heights section of Gloucester City—on a lot that has been vacant for decades. The property at 16 Stites Avenue sits on a 5,001‑square‑foot lot, and the two‑story home with an attached garage will span 2,986 square feet when completed. The asking price is $500,000.
The Zillow listing promotes the house as a modern build with three bedrooms, two and a half baths, a finished basement, and a deck overlooking the backyard. Buyers are offered the option to customize finishes. Taxes, the listing notes, are “TBD.”
The half‑million‑dollar price tag raises a larger question: Is Gloucester City’s housing market now out of sync with the community’s economic reality?
About a year ago, Zillow identified Gloucester City as one of the communities “dangerously close to a housing price correction.” At the time, prices were rising faster than local incomes, investor activity was increasing, and distressed properties were piling up. A year later, many of those warning signs remain.
Recent data shows the city’s median home value hovering between $240,000 and $270,000, depending on the source. Prices have risen modestly, but homes are taking longer to sell—an average of 46 days on the market, compared to just 18 days the year before. Price cuts are becoming more common, and public records show hundreds of liens and dozens of pre‑foreclosures over the past year.
Compared with neighboring towns, Gloucester City remains one of the least expensive markets in the region—yet also one of the most strained. Bellmawr, Westville, and Gloucester Township all have higher home values and stronger demand. Even Brooklawn, the closest comparison, sees homes selling faster and with fewer signs of distress.
So how did Gloucester City end up with rising prices but a weakening foundation?
A major factor is investor pressure. Out‑of‑town buyers, flippers, and cash purchasers have been active in the city for years, pushing prices upward based on profit potential rather than local wages. At the same time, Gloucester City’s housing stock is old—much of it 80 to 100 years old—and expensive to maintain. New construction is rare, and when it does appear, it’s priced according to regional standards, not neighborhood norms.
High property taxes and long‑standing municipal challenges add another layer. Aging infrastructure, limited commercial growth, and persistent code issues have left the city without the stability needed to support sustained price increases.
Correcting the imbalance will require a coordinated effort. Stronger code enforcement, incentives for owner‑occupied rehabilitation, and policies that encourage residents—not investors—to buy homes could help stabilize neighborhoods. A clearer long‑term housing strategy from city leadership, along with a tax structure that reflects the realities of the market, would also move the city in the right direction.
The new home on Stites Avenue is not the cause of Gloucester City’s housing problems. It is a signpost. Prices continue to rise, but the fundamentals beneath them remain uneven. Whether the market corrects itself or continues drifting upward will depend on whether the city confronts the forces shaping its future—or allows them to continue unchecked.
From the Zillow advertisement:
What’s special
Welcome to 16 Stites Avenue, a thoughtfully designed new construction home offering modern comfort, flexible living spaces, and refined finishes throughout. This impressive residence features three spacious bedrooms, two full bathrooms and one half bath, a fully finished basement, and an attached one-car garage, delivering an ideal balance of functionality and contemporary design. Buyers have the opportunity to customize select finishes—please inquire for details.
The main level showcases a bright, open-concept layout that is perfectly suited for both everyday living and entertaining. Abundant natural light fills the living and dining areas and flows seamlessly into the well-appointed kitchen, designed to serve as the true heart of the home. Modern finishes and an efficient floor plan provide both style and practicality. The fully finished basement offers valuable additional living space, ideal for a family room, home office, fitness area, or entertainment space. Upstairs, the private bedroom level features generously sized bedroom
s, including a primary suite with ample closet space and a private en-suite bathroom. Outdoor living is enhanced by a spacious deck overlooking the backyard—perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Additional highlights include quality craftsmanship throughout and a layout designed to complement today’s lifestyle needs.
Situated in one of Gloucester City’s most desirable neighborhoods, the home is conveniently located near parks, shopping, dining, and major commuter routes, including Route 130 and Route 295, with easy access to Philadelphia bridges—placing Center City Philadelphia just 15 minutes away. This is a unique opportunity to personalize and own an exceptional new construction home. Schedule your private showing today. “Taxes are not $1 and are TBD. Taxes and square footage are the responsibility of the buyer to have verified.”
This comparison shows a clear pattern: Gloucester City remains one of the least expensive towns in the region — yet also one of the most economically strained. Neighboring towns with higher prices have stronger demand, newer housing stock, and fewer signs of distress. Even Brooklawn, the closest match, sees homes selling far more quickly.
So how did Gloucester City end up with rising prices but a weakening foundation?
A major factor is investor pressure. Out‑of‑town buyers, flippers, and cash purchasers have been active in the city for years, pushing prices upward based on profit potential rather than local wages. At the same time, Gloucester City’s housing stock is old—much of it 80 to 100 years old—and expensive to maintain. New construction is rare, and when it does appear, it’s priced according to regional standards, not neighborhood norms.
High property taxes and long‑standing municipal challenges add another layer. Aging infrastructure, limited commercial growth, and persistent code issues have left the city without the stability needed to support sustained price increases.
Correcting the imbalance will require a coordinated effort. Stronger code enforcement, incentives for owner‑occupied rehabilitation, and policies that encourage residents—not investors—to buy homes could help stabilize neighborhoods. A clearer long‑term housing strategy from city leadership, along with a tax structure that reflects the realities of the market, would also move the city in the right direction.
The new home on Stites Avenue is not the cause of Gloucester City’s housing problems. It is a signpost. Prices continue to rise, but the fundamentals beneath them remain uneven. Whether the market corrects itself or continues drifting upward will depend on whether the city confronts the forces shaping its future—or allows them to continue unchecked.
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Ronald V. “Ron” Benko of Bellmawr, NJ passed away the morning of November 23, 2025, with his family by his side. Born on December 24, 1934 in Camden, NJ to the late John D. and Bertha (Boguszewski) Benko.
In 1952, Ron enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and proudly served his country, spending 2 years stationed in Korea, until his Honorable Discharge in 1960. There was never a time you would see Ron without wearing his Korean War Vet hat. He was a self-employed horse trainer and was a former member of the Local #322 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union in Winslow Twp., NJ.
Irene M. Levecchia, age 85, of Bellmawr, NJ, passed away peacefully at home on November 16, 2025.
Irene was a remarkable hand quilter involved with the Love Apple and Wenonah Depot Quilters, who found later joyful success trading fabric on eBay. She was previously self-employed as a palmist and personal chef.
Irene is predeceased by her beloved husband of 60 years, Tony, son Stephen, daughter Jean Boddingham, granddaughter Holly Boddingham, and brothers Ray, Jack, and Dan Swissler. She is survived by her sons Tony (Tomoko) & Tom (late Gail), grandson Bob Boddingham, great grandson Prince, sister Eva Rizzo, and many loving nieces and nephews.
In accordance with the deceased’s wishes, no service will be held. We invite you to please keep Irene and the family in your thoughts at this time.
On October 19, 2025, at the age of 83. Of Bellmawr, NJ. Born in Philadelphia, PA, she was daughter of the late, Charles and Dorothy (Campbell) Renn. Joan is survived by her loving children, William Hamilton, Jacqueline Hamilton, Jennifer Nuss, Kelly Hamilton; cherished grandchildren, Nicole Hamilton, Ashley Scott, Amanda Bowman, James Nuss Jr., Samantha Nuss; great grandchildren, Eric, Gabriella, Melina, Xavier, Garrett, Jonathan, Ayla; her brother, Larrry Renn, and son in law, James Bowman. She was also predeceased by her daughter, Teresa Bowman in May of 2025.
Theodore L. Galiazzi, Sr., “Ted”, on March 12, 2020, of Bellmawr; formerly of Magnolia.
Age 80.
Beloved husband of Marie (nee Iacovelli). Devoted father of Linda Galiazzi, Diane Verratti, Ted Galiazzi, Jr. (Heather), and Michael Galiazzi (Christine). Loving Pop Pop of Mia, Bella, Mikey, Julionna, Gia, and Nick. Dear brother of Richard Galiazzi (Marie), Annette Venezia, and the late Anthony and Bobby Galiazzi. Also survived by nieces and nephews.
Ted retired from RCA in Camden after 30-plus years of employment. There will be a viewing from 8:15am to 10:15am Wednesday morning at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, RUNNEMEDE. Funeral Mass 11am Wednesday at Holy Child Parish, St. Teresa RC Church, Runnemede. Interment New St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr.
Juan J. Rios, age 84, of Bellmawr, formerly of Barrington, died peacefully with his family in his heart and at his side, on March 12, 2020.
Juan was the beloved husband of the late Maria E. Rios (nee Leal) for 54 years until her passing on July 16, 2013. The two are now happily reunited and together again. Juan was a devoted and proud father of John Rios (Judy) of Brigantine and Elena Rogers (Bob) of Glendora. Proud Grandpop/Pop-Pop of Lauren, Brian and Bob Rogers, Jr. and Joey and Johnny Bove. Juan was also a great grandfather of one, Gabriel Rogers.
Juan traveled the world as he served in the U.S. Navy for 17 years. He was a long time employee of Owens Corning Fiberglass in Barrington.
Juan, who introduced his family to the South Jersey shore, was an avid salt water fisherman and loved being on the boat and hanging out at the marina in Brigantine with his family and friends. He loved his family very much, almost as much as his family loved him.
Juan was a great provider and a strong willed man who always wanted what was best for his family and did whatever he could to ensure his family had what they needed to succeed. Juan was a proud man and he will be truly missed.
At the request of the family, funeral services and entombment will be private.
