Theral Denise (Davis) Critz-Gioiella

                                 Obituary

Theral Davis Critz Gioiella, beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on July 31, 2025. Born on November 9, 1955, in Jersey City, New Jersey, she was the cherished daughter of John Thomas Davis and Lenora Thomasina Davis.

A proud graduate of Jersey Academy’s Class of 1973, Theral’s deep sense of loyalty and friendship began early. It was there she met her best friend for life, Rosalyn Burns-Browne, a bond that endured across decades and distance. Theral went on to attend Upsala College, where she met James Howard Critz III. The two fell in love quickly and married in 1975. Together they began their life in Maryland while James served in the U.S. Navy.

After his service, they returned to New Jersey and welcomed their daughter, Patryce Myrna Critz, on April 13, 1983. Though Theral and James eventually divorced, their complex but lasting friendship carried through the years, remaining strong until James’s passing in June 2025.

In 1987, Theral found love once more with Robert Gioiella. They were married on December 29 of that year and, on July 7, 1988, welcomed twins Alexandra and Johnathan Gioiella. Theral and Robert shared 38 devoted years together, marked by deep partnership, humor, and mutual care.

Before her marriage to Robert, Theral worked for many years as an insurance adjuster with Allstate, where she was known for her sharp mind, professionalism, and attention to detail. After marrying Robert, she devoted herself to raising her children and caring for her home. She also became the primary caregiver for her own parents, John and Lenora Davis, lovingly supporting them through illness until each of their passings.

Theral was fiercely protective and endlessly loving when it came to her family—especially her children, her husband, and her sister. She was willing to drop everything at a moment’s notice, always ready to show up, step in, or go to battle for them without hesitation. Her loyalty and strength were unshakable, and she was a constant source of comfort, advocacy, and courage to those she loved most.

Throughout her life, Theral faced physical challenges—having been born with a cleft palate, clubbed feet, and dyslexia—and later, a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis on Mother’s Day in 1996. She met these and other health battles, including diabetes and Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome, with remarkable strength and resilience.

Theral never let her conditions define her. In her 50s, she rekindled a childhood passion for fencing, training at New Jersey Fencing Alliance (NJFA) under Frank Mustilli, her daughter’s coach. Against the odds, she competed at the 2014 National Championships—an achievement that symbolized her courage and drive. Even after she could no longer fence, she remained a proud supporter of the community that welcomed her.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Robert Gioiella; her daughters, Patryce Critz and Alexandra Gioiella; her son, Johnathan Gioiella; her sister, Toshie Davis; her nephew, Christian Davis; and many beloved cousins and extended family members. She also leaves behind a special connection with Shelley Tucker-Critz, the second wife of her first husband, and Shelley’s son, William Critz.

She was predeceased by her parents, John Davis and Lenora Davis, and by her brother, John “Yogi” Davis.
Theral’s warmth, wit, and unwavering love touched countless lives. Her larger-than-life spirit, fierce loyalty, and infectious laughter will live on in everyone who had the joy of knowing her. Much like one of her favorite poems by Maya Angelou, she was—without question—a Phenomenal Woman.

Flowers are appreciated—Theral especially loved birds of paradise and bright yellow flowers (though she was famously afraid of sunflowers). Donations to help cover funeral expenses may be made to The Family Funeral Home, Jersey City, c/o Kenneth Cattenhead. (Call for Zelle / cash app information).

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