Nancy Ann Schaefer, 84, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at home surrounded by her loving family and caregiver, Vira.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, October 6, 2023, at 9:30 a.m., at St. Bartholomew the Apostle Roman Catholic Church, 2032 Westfield Avenue, Scotch Plains. Interment will take place at Fairview Cemetery in Westfield, N.J. Visitation will be held today, Thursday, October 5, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Rossi Funeral Home, 1937 WestfieldAvenue, Scotch Plains, N.J.

Nancy was born in Plainfield, N.J. She graduated from Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School in 1957. Nancy dreamed of going to college and becoming a doctor, following in the footsteps of her great-grandmother in Austria, but life had other plans for her and she had to stay close to home. She became a dental assistant for Drs. Carroll and Wibblesman in Westfield before marrying the love of her life, William Allan “Al,” on April 2, 1960, settling in Westfield. They had a beautiful love story and were an inspiration to many. Nancy worked in the cafeteria at Westfield High School for several years, where she quickly became a favorite of all the students.

Nancy’s passion was the medical field, which was no surprise because she was a natural caregiver. She returned to the dental profession and worked for Dr. John C. Wiley for many years. She thrived on helping people and making a difference. Her compassion and kindness were felt by many.

She volunteered to cook meals for the homeless families hosted by her church.

She was always willing to help anyone and lend a hand. Everyone who knew Nancy loved her. You couldn’t help but be happy in her presence. She exuded love and light.

Nancy’s greatest love was her family. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She cherished all her family and friends. She enjoyed entertaining and welcoming people into her home. She was known for her potato salad. She was artistic and creative and an avid reader. She loved nature, birds, butterflies and flowers. She was a member of the Rake and Hoe Garden Club of Westfield.

Nancy is predeceased by her beloved husband, William A. ( 2011).

She will be deeply missed by her loving daughters, Sharry Rubinetti and her husband, John, and Laurie Vaccaro and her husband, Willie; cherished grandsons, Michael Rubinetti and his wife, Alyssa, Alex Rubinetti and Joseph Vaccaro; caring sister, Lonnie McCullough, and her husband, Ron; brother, Paul Schwartz, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Nancy leaves behind a legacy of laughter, kindness and a zest for life that will forever echo in the lives she touched.