Maria (Drazul) Guarna of Rio Grande NJ peacefully passed away on January 14th, 2026. Maria was born in Moscenice, Croatia to Stjepan and Maria (Barkovic) Drazul. She immigrated to the U.S. in 1961, where she met the love of her life, Marziale Guarna, in Philadelphia. Together, they created a beautiful life, and lived the American Dream. Their many successful businesses were attributed to Maria’s dedication and tireless work ethic. 

Maria loved being surrounded by family and friends. Cooking delicious meals was her way to share her love, and will always be remembered by those who gathered around her table. Momma G, as she was affectionately called by her grandchildren, made family her priority with the little ones undoubtedly being the apples of her eyes. An avid garden through the years, her ‘green thumb’ will remain unrivaled. 

Maria is survived by her daughters Gloria (the late Kristopher) Alexander and Laura and Son-in-law James Zeitler. Grandchildren: Dylan, Kyle, Jordan (Harley) and Gavin Alexander, Zachary (Barbara) Zeitler and Olivia (Ben) Stone. Great grandsons: Samuel Stone, Miles and Declan Zeitler. Numerous nieces, nephews and God children which she loved like her own. Maria is also survived by her sister Anne Skalamera, and was preceded in death by her brothers Mario (Anka) Drazul and Ivan (Beverly) Drazul. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11AM Monday, January 19th at the Parish of St. John Neumann Church of St. John of God, 680 Town Bank Rd, North Cape May, NJ.  Family and friends are invited to pay their respects from 10-10:50 am. Private interment will be held on Tuesday, January 20th. 

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Parish of St. John Neumann.