Samuel J. Latini, Jr.
February 3, 1946 - September 9, 2026
Samuel J. Latini, Jr., 80, of Cream Ridge, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Serenity Hospice Inpatient Unit at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hamilton, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born and raised in the Villa Park section of Trenton, NJ, Sam proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, serving his country during the Vietnam War before being honorably discharged.
Following his military service, Sam began a career as a chef, sharing his talents in the kitchens of several well-known local restaurants, including Freddy’s, Cedar Gardens, and Prime Rib. He later began a second career with Mid-State Correctional Facility, retiring after 25 years of dedicated service.
Sam was a devoted and active member of Bible Baptist Church of New Egypt, where he was always willing to lend a helping hand and assist wherever he was needed. In his spare time, Sam had a great love for music, especially doo-wop. His knowledge and appreciation of music earned him the fitting nickname “Jukebox Sam.” Most of all, Sam treasured the life he shared with his wife, Vanda, and the many family members and friends who were fortunate to know him.
Predeceased by his parents, Samuel J. Latini, III and Mafalda (Lupedee) Latini; his beloved son, Samuel J. Latini, III; and his sister-in-law, Joan A. Kmiec; he is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Vanda M. Latini; his brother-in-law, Craig Kmiec; as well as many other relatives and dear friends.
A gathering for family and friends will be held on Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 4:00 p.m. at Bible Baptist Church of New Egypt, 100 Lakewood Road, New Egypt, NJ, 08533. Refreshments will follow the funeral service at the church.
Graveside services with Navy honors will be held on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. SHARP at the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 350 Province Line Road, North Hanover Township, NJ 08562. Guests arriving for the burial service should arrive to the cemetery no later than 9:45 a.m.
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I'm deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my cousin Big Sam. I always considered him to be a fatherly figure in my life, moreso than my own father. His son was like a brother to me and I still feel the effects of that loss to this day, and always will. Some of my most cherished memories from my childhood were spending time with the Latini family. I was always welcomed and cared for as if I was his own son. I know that the passing of his only son was devastating to Sam and Vonda, but now Sam will finally be reunited with him in the Kingdom of Heaven. Rest in peace "Jukebox Sam", you will b…
Dear Vonda, my most sincere condolences. We are praying for you and your family. Sam is with the Lord and we will see him again. May our Lord's grace be sufficient for you at this time. You and Sam have been a blessing to so many people and I know the Lord will say to Sam, Well done thou good and faithful servant. God bless you, we love you.
Pastor Frank Cuozzo.
Dear Vonda,
My condolences to you in the loss of your beloved Sam.
May you cherish the memories and time you spent together.
Now Sam is at peace in the arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Who in His time will resurrect Sam and all who believe in the Savior Jesus Christ. Giving us a new body and be in His presence for all eternity.
God bless!