Honoring the Life of Eugene Maggioncalda ’83

Some members of the St. Augustine Prep Brotherhood leave campus after graduation and quietly spend the rest of their lives living the values they first began to cultivate here.

Eugene Maggioncalda ’83 was one of those extraordinary men.

The St. Augustine Prep community joins the Maggioncalda family in mourning the passing of Eugene, who died peacefully at home after a courageous four-year battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his wife, Darlene.

A proud Vineland native, Eugene graduated from St. Augustine Prep in 1983 before earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Drexel University, a master’s degree in educational administration from Wilmington University and, ultimately, a doctorate in Educational Psychology from Capella University.

While his academic accomplishments were impressive, it was the work of his heart that defined his life.

For nearly three decades, Eugene dedicated himself to serving students whose paths were often the most difficult. He served as a special education teacher and principal at Pineland Learning Center before becoming a supervisor of education within the New Jersey Department of Corrections. In the final chapter of his career, Eugene returned to the classroom, spending nine years teaching at Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women, where he took great pride in helping students earn high school diplomas and high school equivalency credentials.

His vocation was not simply teaching. It was restoring hope.

Away from the classroom, Eugene shared a love of travel with his wife, Darlene. Together they explored the world—from Italy and Greece to China, Vietnam, Singapore and Hong Kong—creating memories that reflected his curiosity, thoughtful planning and appreciation for different cultures.

Those who knew Eugene knew him as an educator, a lifelong learner, a devoted husband, a father, a son and a man whose quiet commitment to others spoke louder than any title he ever held.

As a Catholic and Augustinian school, we are reminded that a life is measured not merely by achievements, but by how faithfully one serves others. Eugene’s professional career and personal life reflected that spirit in countless ways.

We extend our heartfelt prayers and deepest sympathies to his wife, Darlene; his children, Lauren Alvarez and Eugene C. Maggioncalda ’07; his mother, Francesca P'83 '86 '88 G'07; his brothers, Dr. John Maggioncalda ’86 and Mark Maggioncalda ’88; and the entire Maggioncalda family, whose connection to St. Augustine Prep spans generations. We also remember with gratitude his late father, Eugene Maggioncalda P'83 '86 '88 G'07, whose legacy lives on through his family and the countless lives they have touched.

May God grant Eugene eternal rest, may perpetual light shine upon him, and may the peace of Christ bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.

Requiescat in Pace, dear Hermit Brother.