Richards Funeral Home Inc. Obituaries

Richards Funeral Home Inc.: A Legacy of Compassionate Care

Located in the heart of Lilbourn, Missouri, Richards Funeral Home Inc. has been a pillar of support for families in their time of need for generations. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this funeral home has earned a reputation for providing compassionate care and personalized service to those who have lost a loved one.

A History of Trust and Tradition

Founded on a foundation of trust and tradition, Richards Funeral Home Inc. has been serving the Lilbourn community since [year]. Over the years, the funeral home has remained family-owned and operated, with a dedication to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. The staff at Richards Funeral Home Inc. takes pride in their ability to provide a warm and welcoming environment, where families can feel comfortable and supported during their most difficult times.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Helen Woch - August 19, 1925 - May 13, 2024

Departed: 05/13/2024 (Riverdale)

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Stephanie Robin Johnstone - December 04, 1995 - May 06, 2024

Departed: 05/06/2024 (Riverdale)

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Rosemary B. Sauselen - November 28, 1946 - May 05, 2024

Departed: 05/05/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Rosemary B. Sauselen, age 77, passed away May 5, 2024. Born in Roslindale, MA, to the late Frank and Sarah Brazzo, she was a forty five year resident of Bloomingdale, NJ prior to moving to Lakewood, NJ eight years ago. She enjoyed taking day trips, watching the boats at the Point Pleasant inlet, going to the Cape May Zoo, and was an avid N.J. Devils hockey fan. Beloved mother of Melanie Sauselen, Brian Sauselen and his wife Jamie. Also survived by her five grandchildren, Brianna, Scott, Matthew, Jonathan and Rachel. Predeceased by her husband Keith Sauselen in 2016, along with sisters Ann, Josephine and her brother Buddy. Visiting hours Friday, May 17, 9-11 am at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale, Funeral mass 12 pm at St. Mary's Church, Pompton Lakes. Interment to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Butler. The family requests that in lieu of flowers that a donation be made to The St. Ignatius Angel Tuition Scholarship Fund. Checks can be made out to St. Ignatius School. In Memory of Rosemary Sauselen in the memo and mailed to: St. Ignatius Loyola 2810 St. Albans Drive Reading, PA 19608

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Joseph Heindrich - March 12, 1939 - April 29, 2024

Departed: 04/29/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Joseph Heindrich, age 85, of Riverdale, NJ passed away April 29, 2024. Born in the Bronx, NY, Joseph earned his degree in dental technology from New York City College. In 1968 he established Consistent Dental Laboratory operating in Fort Lee, NJ and later in 1983 working from his home in Riverdale. Joe enjoyed boating, swimming in the ocean, and spending time with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed spreading the good word of God to anyone he met. He will be greatly missed by his family. Beloved husband of Elizabeth (Basile) Heindrich. Loving father of Lloyd Heindrich and his wife Melissa. Also survived by his four grandchildren, Caleb, Lily, Dylan and Lanie. A memorial visitation will be held Thursday, May 9th, 4-7 pm at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale.

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John Harvey - December 06, 1943 - April 20, 2024

Departed: 04/20/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: John Harvey, 80, the husband of Lola, passed away April 20, 2024. Born in Newark, NJ to the late Hugh and Catherine Harvey. He lived in the Erskine Lakes community of Ringwood for fifty years before moving to Forked River in 2019. John spent his entire career working for State Farm Insurance as a Commercial Field Underwriter before his retirement in 2006. When not working you could always find John listening to country music in his garage, taking care of his yard and working on his continuous list of home improvement projects.

His real passion in life was his family. He was married to his loving wife Lola for 56 years and had three beautiful children: Cathy McCarthy of Toms River, Patrick Harvey and his wife Christine of West Milford and Eric Harvey and his wife Jeri of Ringwood. He also cherished his time with his 9 grandchildren: Cailee, Jack, Julia, Brayden, Brianna, Erin, Amanda, Mckenna and was predeceased by his grandson Justin. He is also survived by his two brothers Michael Harvey of Belleville and Patrick Harvey of Elizabeth.

Visiting hours Thursday, April 25th, 4-7 pm at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale. Funeral mass Friday 10 am at St.Mary's Church, Pompton Lakes. Interment to follow at Christ the King Cemetery, Franklin Lakes.

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Isabel Manfredo - November 18, 1930 - April 14, 2024

Departed: 04/14/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Isabel Manfredo, aged 93, a long-time resident of Pompton Lakes and recently of Hamilton, NJ, passed into eternal rest on April 14, 2024. Born in New York, NY to Salvatore and Rosa Gioia. Isabel was a dedicated worker at Yardley, Datascope, and Mack Wayne Plastics before her retirement. Her unwavering commitment to ensuring her children received higher education was the driving force behind her industrious nature. A devout parishioner of St. Mary’s Church in Pompton Lakes; Isabel’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was an active member of the church seniors’ group and found joy in serving alongside fellow believers. She held an unyielding love for camping with family - these moments under the stars were where memories were woven, and bonds strengthened. Isabel’s hands skillfully crafted warmth and love through her crocheting; each stitch was a testament to her enduring affection for those she held dear. Isabel is survived by her son Peter Manfredo, daughter-in-laws Patricia Manfredo and Kathleen Manfredo, sister Calogera (Lee) Galvano, eleven cherished grandchildren; as well as fourteen great-grandchildren who will carry forward the legacy of love she instilled. Isabel now joins those who preceded her in passing including husband Ernest; sons Ernest and Salvatore; brother Charles Gioia; sisters Grace Gioia, Rose Russo, Louise Siracusano, and Jean Lentini – each holding a special place in her heart forevermore. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Monday, April 22 from 6 pm to 8 pm at Richards Funeral Home located at 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale, NJ. A funeral mass celebrating Isabel’s life will be held on Tuesday, April 23 at Saint Mary’s Church Pompton Lakes at 10 am followed by interment at Pompton Reformed Cemetery, Pompton Lakes where she will rest eternally surrounded by the embrace of loved ones.

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Margaret A Simpson - April 07, 1927 - April 11, 2024

Departed: 04/11/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Margaret A. Simpson, 97, passed away April 11, 2024. Born in Scranton, PA to James and Minnie Guire she resided in North Haledon, NJ formerly of Stockholm and Bloomingdale. Margaret worked for Weiss-Aug as an inspector prior to her retirement. She enjoyed playing bingo and needlepoint in her spare time. Beloved mother of Candice Sokolowski and her late husband Jeffrey, Kimberly Marion and her husband Ken, brother Thomas Guire and sister Patricia Wozniak, six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Predeceased by her son James and husband Oliver. A graveside service will be held Tuesday, April 16 at 11:30 am at Mount Rest Cemetery, Butler.  Friends are asked to meet at the cemetery.

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Diane M Alicea - December 14, 1944 - April 08, 2024

Departed: 04/08/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Diane (Fraser) Alicea, beloved wife, stepmother, grandmother, and aunt, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 8, 2024, at the age of 79. Born on December 14, 1944, in Paterson, NJ, to George and Catherine Fraser, Diane's loving nature touched the lives of all who knew her. She spent her entire childhood in Riverdale, NJ, attending Butler High School and later Katharine Gibbs Secretarial School.

After her education, Diane began her career at American Cyanamid, where she worked in the International Trade Division. It was there she met and married the love of her life, Anthony “Tony” Alicea. Her marriage to Tony was the cornerstone of her happiness, and together, they shared countless memories living in Woodland Park, NJ. In retirement, they relocated to West Palm Beach, Florida, where they cherished every moment surrounded by family and friends.

Diane's warmth and affection extended to her family. Surviving her are her stepchildren Mark Alicea and his wife, Gabrielle; Joanne Allocca and her husband, Dan; Anthony Alicea and his wife, Kate; as well as her grandchildren Mark, Matthew, Lauren, Andy, Ashley and Ava. She cherished her times in Florida with her “Special Aunt” Dorothy Adornetto and she will be dearly missed by cousins Michael Adornetto and his wife, Meg; Christina Sinacola and her husband, Joe; Tracy Schilling and her husband, Joe; Shannon Dempsey and her husband, Scott; and all of their children. Her memory will be forever treasured by her cousin Sandra Struble and her husband, Keith; and her Godchild, Samantha O’Neil, and her husband, Robert.

Her loving spirit and kindness will forever be remembered and deeply missed by all who knew her.

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Linda M Steel - May 24, 1948 - March 25, 2024

Departed: 03/25/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Linda M. Steel, 75, passed away March 25, 2024. Born in Passaic, NJ to the late Edward and Helen Bartel she lived in Wallington and Garfield prior to moving to Pompton Lakes forty eight years ago. Linda earned her Bachelor's degree from Rutgers University, Newark. She worked for Saint Joseph's Hospital, Paterson as an accounting manager prior to her retirement, and was a member of the Pompton Lakes Seniors. Visitation hours will be Wednesday, March 27, from 3 pm to 5 pm at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale.  A graveside service will be held Thursday, March 28, 11 am at Our Lady of Magnificat Cemetery, 2 Miller Road, Kinnelon.

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Diana Lynn Rubino - April 21, 1945 - March 02, 2024

Departed: 03/02/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Diana Lynn Rubino, 78, passed away March 2, 2024. Diana was a resident of Pompton Lakes, NJ since 1971 where she worked as a secretary for the Pompton Lakes Board of Education. Loved by many, she had a zest for life, enjoyed music both dancing and listening, especially Elvis. Beloved mother of Cheryl Rubino and Lorraine Hout. Sister of Leo J. Thaler Jr., and Nana of Emma and Daniel. Diana will be laid to rest next to her husband Daniel with a private service on March 8, 2024.

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Walter H. Struble - February 01, 2024 - February 15, 2024

Departed: 02/15/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Struble, Walter H., 93, of Pompton Lakes, NJ passed away February 15, 2024. He was the superintendent of building and grounds for Pompton Lakes schools prior to his retirement. Beloved father of Diane Banks and her husband Russell, Roy Struble and his wife Andi. Grandfather of Tanner and Colton Banks. Predeceased by his wife Jeannette Struble in 2017. Visiting hours Saturday February 17, 2024, from 1-4 PM at Richards Funeral Home 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike Riverdale. Prayers at 3:30 PM. Entombment Tuesday 10 AM at Laurel Grove Cemetery, Totowa.

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Lorraine Mary Wienbrock - December 19, 1937 - February 15, 2024

Departed: 02/15/2024 (Riverdale)

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Gail E. Appel - January 01, 2024 - January 21, 2024

Departed: 01/21/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Appel, Gail E., 80, of Bloomingdale passed away January 21, 2024. Beloved wife of Vernon Appel Jr. Loving mother of Vernon Appel III. Also survived by her sister Gloria Akers and five grandchildren. Predeceased by her two sons, Keith and Ronald Appel. Memorial visitation Thursday, January 25, 6-8 PM at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale. Disposition is private.

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Rosa Testino - December 29, 2023 - December 29, 2023

Departed: 12/29/2023 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Testino, Rosa, 85, of Riverdale, NJ passed away December 29, 2023. Rosa was born in Italy to the late Isabella (Lupo) and Luigi Tempesta. She was predeceased by her husband Pasquale in 2014. Beloved mother of Nancy Joyce, and sons Anthony, Louis and Robert Testino. Sister of Mary Quinto, Anna Ventura, Josephine Scavo and Sara Mastro. Also survived by her nine grandchildren, Anthony, Ashley, Alex, Patrick, Robbie, Kayla, Jacob, Gianna and James. Visiting hours Tuesday, January 2, 4-8 PM at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale. Funeral Mass Wednesday 10:30 AM at St. Mary's Church, 25 Pompton Avenue, Pompton Lakes. Entombment will follow at Laurel Grove Cemetery, Totowa.

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Frank Bilello - September 08, 1941 - December 28, 2023

Departed: 12/28/2023 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Bilello, Frank, 82, of Riverdale, NJ, passed away peacefully the morning of December 28, 2023, surrounded by loved ones. Frank was born to Vincent "Jimmy" and Nancy Bilello (nee Caruso) on September 8, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York. He would go on to become an auto mechanic, an Army Veteran, and then a very successful banker for over 45 years with JP Morgan Chase, retiring as a Senior Vice-President. His favorite working title, though, was "Pop." Frank is survived by his wife, Antonette (nee DeSimone), and their two children, Vincent (Brianne, nee Krake), Anthony (Christine, nee Lally) and his three children James, Frank, and Judy. He also leaves behind his sister, Nancy, along with many grandchildren, including Giavanna, Natalee, Eloise, Thomas, Frank Jr., Isabella, Christina, Mia, Anthony, and Vincent, as well as many nieces, nephews, and great grandchildren. Frank was predeceased by his parents, Jimmy and Nancy, his daughter Nancy, his sister Connie, his brother John, his parents-in-law Anthony and Mary, and his brothers-in-law Joseph and Richard. Aside from his joy of helping his clients at the bank, Frank worked hard to ensure that he provided a great life for his entire family. He enjoyed working on projects in the home, reading books, and playing with his grandchildren. A viewing of Frank will be held Wednesday, January 3, between 3pm and 7pm at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale, NJ 07457. A private memorial service will be held Thursday, January 4, 2024 at 10am at Richards Funeral Home and his final resting place will be at Maryrest Cemetery & Mausoleum in Mahwah, NJ.

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Mary A. Aussenheimer - October 19, 1935 - June 11, 2024

Departed: 06/11/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Mary A. Aussenheimer (nee Gallagher) age 88 passed away June 11, 2024. Born in New York City to the late Joseph and Elizabeth Gallagher she resided in Bloomingdale since 1962. Mary was a district manager for the Herald News, Passaic prior to her retirement. Beloved mother of Robert Aussenheimer and William Aussenheimer and their spouses Jill and Kathleen Aussenheimer. Sister of Joseph Gallagher and Kathleen Arena. Also survived by seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Predeceased by her husband Robert in 2020. Visiting hours Thursday June 13, 6-8 pm at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale. Funeral mass Friday 10 am at St. Anthonys Church, 65 Bartholdi Avenue, Butler. Please meet directly at church. Interment Mount Rest Cemetery, Butler.

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William John Hennessy - January 27, 1947 - June 07, 2024

Departed: 06/07/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: It is with great sadness that the family of William [Bill] Hennessy, 77, of Ringwood, NJ, announces his passing on Friday, June 7th, 2024.

Bill was born on January 27, 1947, to parents James Joseph Hennessy and Gladys Elizabeth Hennessy in Brooklyn, NY, raised in Douglaston, NY. After Bill graduated from Bayside HS in Queens, NY, he went on to study and graduate with a Bachelors in Business from CW Post College (now SUNY College) while working for FJR Electronics. After graduating from Post with his degree in Business, Bill stayed in the electronics industry for many years after, a path that would take him to and from Asia much of the year. He later opened his own successful businesses, Innovative Marketing and Communications, followed by D’Lite Inc, retiring in 2007.

Bill married Michele Henebry in 1971, designed and built a home with their own hands in Ringwood, NJ in 1977, where they had and raised their two children, Adam and Erica Hennessy.

Bill was predeceased by his wife, Michele Hennessy. He is survived by his current wife, Minti Hennessy, two children, Adam and Erica, and two beloved dogs, Charlie and Betty.

Bill was known to all who knew him as a man who would do anything for anyone else and never ask for something in return. Bill had a fierce dedication to his family, a love of teaching others, and a passion for boating. He was a Lt. Commander in the United States Power Squadron, bringing that passion forth while taking his family, Michele, Adam, and Erica up and down the Hudson River, through the locks and up to Lake Champlain often, as well as teaching prospective captains to respect Maritime Laws. In his later years, he enjoyed snowbird-life with his current wife Minti and their two dogs, traveling back and forth from NJ to FL each year.

Bill was the guy everyone ran to when they had a problem, and his relaxed and easy personality made him welcome anywhere he went. Bill will be greatly missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.

Services will be held at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale, NJ, on Sunday, June 16th, from 2-4 pm.  Funeral will be held at Christ the King Cemetery in Franklin Lakes, NJ on Monday, June 17th, at 10 am.

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Trudy Sisco - May 20, 1960 - June 04, 2024

Departed: 06/04/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Trudy L. Sisco, (nee Akers) age 64, passed away June 4, 2024, surrounded by her family. Born to the late Leroy and Salome Akers, Trudy lived in Wanaque and later Pompton Lakes all of her life. Trudy was the beloved wife of David Sisco for 24 years. Trudy’s pride and joy were her children, Shawn Cole and wife Brianne, Cory Cole, stepchildren, Dana and Tony Sisco, and grandchildren, Finnegan and Aiden. Trudy loved to spend time in her garden with her family, surrounded by flowers and beautiful birds. Trudy is survived by her brother, Leroy Akers, and sisters, Jean Hopper, Laura Ostrander and Carolyn Hanak. Predeceased by siblings John, Charles, Jim and Billy Akers, Salome Sillsbury and Dorothy Mansfield. Memorial visiting Saturday, 11 am - 1 pm at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Tpke., Riverdale.

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Dolores A Poling - March 22, 1937 - June 03, 2024

Departed: 06/03/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Dolores A. Poling, (nee Dolloway) age 87 passed away June 3, 2024. Born in Paterson to the late George and Rose (Gould) Dolloway she lived in Bloomingdale most of her life. Dolores was a teacher's aid  for thirty three years at Martha B Day School in Bloomingdale prior to retirement. Survived by her nieces Dolores Hughes and Donna Holzmuller and nephew Joseph Sampson, great nephew Robert Hughes and great niece Taylor Sampson.  Predeceased by her husband Donald Poling in 1998.  A graveside service will be held Thursday, June 13, 11 AM at Mount Rest Cemetery, Boonton Avenue, Butler.  Arrangements  entrusted to Richards Funeral Home, Riverdale.

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Estelle Mertrud - June 28, 1934 - May 29, 2024

Departed: 05/29/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Estelle Olsen was born on June 28th, 1934. Shortly before then, her mother, Astri and older brother, Arne Stein took a ship to be with Astri’s mama in Bergen, Norway for the birth. Her father, Olav Olsen stayed behind where they resided in Brooklyn, NY until their return to the states that Aug. It was yrs. later, that Estelle’s mother read an ad from Con Edison Electric Company who were looking for young girls to learn about electrical appliances. They jumped at the opportunity. Estelle had Home Economics all four years in HS, which helped when Con Ed contacted her, her senior year, asking Estelle to apply for employment there. She was hired after graduation to demonstrate the appliances to new buyers. Robert R Mertrud walked into her life. They dated, married and then settled in Midvale, NJ. Soon after, Estelle found a job on a TV show called, “Stop, Look and Cook.” Her duty was to lay out all the ingredients for the host, cook the meal behind the scenes, so the host could have the meal to show the viewers afterwards. When the show ended Estelle was hired by G. E. to demonstrate small appliances, as well. In 1956 the happy couple moved to their first home at 51 Jackson Ave, Pompton Plains, NJ. Their second child arrived soon after. Over the next few years, the number of children grew to five. Deborah, Robert, Donna, Eric and Douglas. During those early yrs. Estelle was a Girl Scout Leader and Mother Advisor in Rainbow Girls, which was part of the Masonic Lodge while she was in the Eastern Star. Lake George, NY was a favorite amongst other areas the family went camping, but as the family grew older so did their individual interests. So, Estelle and Bob took many other trips with the Shriners, having a grand time and most often she was the life of the party! In 1975 Estelle’s life changed again. Fairleigh Dickenson University was looking for women to learn “four handed dentistry.” After passing classes Estelle was hired for the DAU Dept in the Dental School at the Teaneck/Hackensack, NJ Campus. Yrs. later she found work closer to home, as a Visiting Homemaker and enjoyed that line of work for over ten years. By then the children were married and as, “Empty Nesters” Bob and Estelle retired. With NJ prices skyrocketing they decided to move to Tennessee. The family continued to grow. So, they decided to move back to NJ after awhile and found a lovely home in Toms River, NJ where they lived until Covid occurred in 2020. Butler, NJ became home for them these last years. Estelle’s husband, Bob passed away in July 2023 and Estelle followed, taking her last breath at home with family by her side on May 29th, 2024. She leaves behind five grown children, their spouses, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was mother and grandmother to many others along the way and will be so greatly missed by all that knew this elegant woman who led by example. She will always be their Viking Queen. A Celebration of Estelle’s Life will be held at 23 Kiel Ave, Butler NJ on Sunday, June 30th, 12 noon-3 pm. It's where Estelle lived with her daughter, Donna, son-in-law, Ned with Estelle’s son Eric and daughter-in-law, Lana living in the upstairs apt. There is parking directly across the street in the car repair lot or at roadside in front of the house. The driveway is located to the left of the house, which leads to the backyard where the Celebration of Estelle’s Life will be taking place. *A private military service will be at the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, Arneyton, NJ where both Bob and Estelle’s mixed cremains will be laid to rest on September 25, 2024, which would have been their 70th wedding anniversary.*

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Salvatora Giunta - August 26, 1947 - June 30, 2024

Departed: 06/30/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Salvatora Giunta, known affectionately as Beatrice, of Pompton Lakes, passed away on June 30, 2024. She will be remembered as a kind and generous soul, cherished for her beautiful smile, her love of cards, and her unwavering devotion to her family and faith.

Salvatora was preceded in death by her husband, Fortunato Giunta, in 2013, and her beloved son, Fortunato Santo Giunta, in 2007. She is survived by her daughters, Carmelina Fusaro and her husband Ronald, and Lucy Giglio and her husband Joe; her grandchildren, Joseph, Marcus, Giovanna, Francesca, Angelo, Fortunato Jr., and Michella.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, July 2, from 5-8 pm at Richards Funeral Home, located at 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale. A funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, July 3, at 10 am at St. Mary's Church, 17 Pompton Avenue, Pompton Lakes. Burial will follow at Pompton Reformed Church Cemetery in Pompton Lakes.

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Alma Marie Colfax - May 08, 1952 - July 18, 2024

Departed: 07/18/2024 (Riverdale)

Obituary Preview: Alma M Colfax passed away in her home in Wanaque on July 18, 2024. Alma was born in Paterson NJ on May 8, 1952 to loving parents Nettie (Smith) and John Goritski. She lived in Haledon for her first 11 years before relocating to Wanaque in 1963 and became a life long resident. Alma married the love of her life, Thomas (Chip) Colfax in 1969 and have two children Sherrie and Richard. Alma was pre-deceased by her beloved husband Chip, loving son Richard, parents Nettie and John, and sister Kathy. Alma is survived by her daughter Sherrie of Wanaque, son in law Darren of Wanaque, brother Gary of Wanaque, brother John of PA, five grandchildren, Darren Jr, Jamie, Dylan, Devin, and Leah, one great-grandson, Jensen, and three step great-granddaughters, as well as many nieces and nephews. Alma worked as a waitress at Carmellas in Pompton Lakes for many years, then owned her own luncheonette with husband Chip. She was a wife, a mother, a grandmother “Ma”, sister, aunt and friend and greatly loved by all. Visiting hours Monday, July 22, from 4-7 pm at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale. Funeral service on Tuesday 11 am at Midvale Cemetery, Wanaque. Please meet directly at the cemetery.

Alma M Colfax passed away in her home in Wanaque on July 18, 2024. Alma was born in Paterson NJ on May 8, 1952 to loving parents Nettie (Smith) and John Goritski. She lived in Haledon for her first 11 years before relocating to Wanaque in 1963 and became a life long resident. Alma married the love of her life, Thomas (Chip) Colfax in 1969 and have two children Sherrie and Richard. Alma was pre-deceased by her beloved husband Chip, loving son Richard, parents Nettie and John, and sister Kathy. Alma is survived by her daughter Sherrie of Wanaque, son in law Darren of Wanaque, brother Gary of Wanaque, brother John of PA, five grandchildren, Darren Jr, Jamie, Dylan, Devin, and Leah, one great-grandson, Jensen, and three step great-granddaughters, as well as many nieces and nephews. Alma worked as a waitress at Carmellas in Pompton Lakes for many years, then owned her own luncheonette with husband Chip. She was a wife, a mother, a grandmother “Ma”, sister, aunt and friend and greatly loved by all. Visiting hours Monday, July 22, from 4-7 pm at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale. Funeral service on Tuesday 11 am at Midvale Cemetery, Wanaque. Please meet directly at the cemetery.

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A Commitment to Personalized Service

At Richards Funeral Home Inc., every family is treated with the utmost respect and compassion. The staff understands that each person is unique, and that their farewell should be a reflection of their life and legacy. That's why they offer personalized funeral services, tailored to meet the specific needs and wishes of each family. From traditional funeral ceremonies to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and more, Richards Funeral Home Inc. is dedicated to helping families create a meaningful and memorable tribute to their loved one.

A Facility Designed for Comfort and Convenience

The funeral home's facility, located at 100 S. Sixth St - PO Box 317, Lilbourn, MO, 63862, is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The spacious chapel can accommodate large gatherings, while the cozy visitation rooms provide an intimate setting for families to share stories and memories. The facility is also equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring that every service is conducted with dignity and respect.

Caring Professionals Dedicated to Your Needs

The staff at Richards Funeral Home Inc. is comprised of caring professionals who are dedicated to supporting families through the funeral planning process. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, they are committed to providing guidance, comfort, and reassurance every step of the way. Their expertise and compassion ensure that every detail is carefully considered, allowing families to focus on what matters most – celebrating the life of their loved one.

Pre-Planning Services: Taking Control of Your Final Wishes

Richards Funeral Home Inc. understands that planning ahead can bring peace of mind and alleviate burden on loved ones. That's why they offer pre-planning services, allowing individuals to take control of their final wishes and make informed decisions about their funeral arrangements. By pre-planning, individuals can ensure that their preferences are respected, while also locking in costs at today's prices.

A Network of Support for Grieving Families

Losing a loved one can be a devastating experience, but it doesn't have to be faced alone. Richards Funeral Home Inc. offers a network of support for grieving families, including bereavement counseling, support groups, and community resources. They understand that grief is a journey, and they are committed to walking alongside families every step of the way.

A Legacy of Compassionate Care: Why Choose Richards Funeral Home Inc.

In times of sorrow, it's comforting to know that there are people who care. At Richards Funeral Home Inc., you'll find a team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about providing compassionate care and personalized service. With a legacy of trust and tradition, this funeral home has earned its place as a pillar of the Lilbourn community. Whether you're planning ahead or facing an unexpected loss, Richards Funeral Home Inc. is here to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's usually published in a newspaper, online obituary platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing essential information to those who need to know about the passing. They help notify people of the funeral or memorial service details, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences to the family.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family members or close friends of the deceased write the obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or obituary writer may assist with writing the obituary, especially if the family needs guidance or prefers not to write it themselves.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A standard obituary usually includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service (if applicable), surviving family members, and any notable achievements or hobbies. You may also include funeral service details, charity information, or other relevant data.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Generally, it's recommended to keep it concise, around 150-200 words. However, some online platforms may allow for longer tributes or stories.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many newspapers and online obituary platforms allow you to include one or multiple photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the tribute and make it more engaging.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and deadlines. Some newspapers may have online submission forms or email addresses where you can send the obituary and payment information.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the newspaper or online platform. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the length, format, and reach of the publication.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it's becoming increasingly popular for people to write their own obituaries before they pass away. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life story is told in your own words.

What's the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only essential details like name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that provides a summary of the person's life and accomplishments.

Can I include humor or anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries don't have to be somber and serious. Including humorous stories or personal anecdotes can help celebrate the person's life and personality.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search online archives of newspapers or visit local libraries that maintain historical records. Many online genealogy platforms and ancestry websites also provide access to archived obituaries.

Can I republish an obituary on social media or my personal website?

Check with the original publisher or copyright holder for permission before republishing an obituary. You may need to obtain permission or give proper attribution to avoid copyright infringement.

What's the purpose of an obituary archive?

An obituary archive is a collection of past obituaries that can be searched and accessed by researchers, genealogists, or individuals looking for information about their ancestors or loved ones.

How do I write an obituary for someone who was private or had a difficult life?

Treat the person with respect and dignity when writing their obituary. Focus on their positive qualities, accomplishments, and relationships rather than their struggles or challenges.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Yes! Including meaningful quotes, poems, or lyrics can add depth and personality to the obituary. Choose something that resonates with the person's spirit or reflects their interests.

How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an already-published obituary?

Contact the publication or online platform immediately to report any errors. They may be able to correct the mistake and reprint or update the obituary accordingly.

What's the role of an obituary writer?

An obituary writer is a professional who helps families craft a well-written and meaningful tribute to their loved one. They may work independently or as part of a funeral home or online platform.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial funds in an obituary?

Yes! Many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the person's memory and legacy.

How do I preserve an original copy of an obituary?

You can save a physical copy of the newspaper clipping or print out a digital version from an online platform. Consider laminating or framing it for safekeeping.

Can I create a video obituary?

Yes! With modern technology, it's possible to create video tributes that combine images, music, and storytelling. These can be shared online or played during funeral services.

What's the significance of publishing an obituary in multiple languages?

Publishing an obituary in multiple languages can help reach a broader audience and ensure that all family members and friends are informed about the passing, regardless of their language proficiency.

How do I share an online obituary on social media?

Copy and paste the link to the online obituary into your social media post. You can also use hashtags to reach a wider audience and encourage others to share their condolences.

Can I update an existing online obituary?

Contact the online platform where the obituary was published to inquire about their update process. They may allow you to add new information, photos, or corrections.

What's the importance of proofreading an obituary before publication?

Meticulously proofread the obituary for spelling errors, factual inaccuracies, and formatting issues before submitting it for publication. This ensures that the final product is respectful and accurate.