Janet Carol DeStefano Caruso, age 80 of Oceanport, died peacefully and at home on Saturday, May 12, 2018. Janet was a devoted mother and grandmother whose life was lovingly dedicated to her 11 grandchildren. Janet was born in Long Branch, NJ and was a lifelong resident of Monmouth County. She graduated from Long Branch High School in 1955, where she met her husband of 40 years Fred C Caruso. After high school and working for Fort Monmouth, Janet centered her devotion and affection upon raising her family and making her home the embodiment of love and happiness. An avid cook and accomplished Bridge player, cuisine and her recipes were always a topic of conversation in her home, and she was proficient enough to accumulate Masterpoints while playing many competitive Bridge tournaments. She enjoyed entertaining friends and family at her home in Rumson, NJ, where she lived for more than 30 years, and which was often the focal point for family holidays and gatherings. She loved travelling, and visited many countries around the world.

Janet was predeceased by her parents, John and Helen DeStefano; brother Jack DeStefano; grandson Cory Pomphrey; sister-in-law Anne DeStefano, and beloved niece Nancy Anne Byrne. Surviving are her brother Bob DeStefano of Shelter Island, NY; son, John Caruso and his wife Luba of Fair Haven, NJ; 2 daughters Stefanie Rothbard and her husband Robert of Westlake Village, CA; and Lori Pomphrey and her husband Brud of Rumson, NJ; 10 grandchildren, who lovingly knew her as Nana; Amanda, Daniel, Kevyn, Mara, and John Rothbard, Chase, Trevor, and Kate Caruso, and Colin and Gavin Pomphrey; sister-in-law Adrienne Trapasso; 3 nephews, John DeStefano, Brian DeStefano, and Bob DeStefano Jr.; and 2 nieces Betty-Ann Wasielewski and Holly Henry.

A private service for family will be held as per Janet’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Family & Children Services, in honor of Janet’s lifelong friendship with Arlene Lospinoso and her love for that organization, at: 191 Bath Avenue, Long Branch, NJ 07740. Telephone (732) 222-9111. Letters of condolence may be sent through the web at www.damianofuneralhome.com.