Plan for the Future
Anna R. Labriola, 71, of Short Hills, NJ, passed away on September 14, 2021. Born and raised in Minotola, NJ, the daughter of Francis and Elsa (Mammi) Labriola, Anna had lived in Short Hills for the past 35 years. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Ursinus College, her DMD from Farleigh Dickinson University and her PhD in Neurosciences from UMDNJ. A dentist and prosthodontist, Anna had her own practice in Short Hills for over thirty-five years. She had endless interests and talents, working diligently to master them, including sculpting, painting and cooking. She practiced Buddhism for over thirty years, studied Feng Shui, and was an avid gardener, creating her own landscaped oasis. She loved travel, the fine arts, and, of course, Pink Floyd. She nurtured and cherished animals, including her many fish and rescue dogs and cats. Many homeless, abused animals found a safe haven in Anna’s home and comfort in her arms. She fostered many cats and dogs over the years and was an active volunteer and board member of her daughter, Alexandra, and her partner James’ cat rescue, Street Cats to Sweet Cats Rescue, for almost two years. Anna was enchanting, making the world around her beautiful and dynamic. She lived, studied, and loved with intensity and enthusiasm that was palpable. Anna always elevated people around her, validating them, truly hearing them, and honoring them.
Anna is survived by her loving daughter, Alexandra Labriola Favetta and her partner James Spilatro, his sons, Julian and Gabriel, her cherished honorary daughter Margarita Ferguson and her wife, Lori Ferguson, as well as her close friends Donald, Cheryl, Noreen and Mark.
