Obituary of Eileen T Garner

Eileen T. Garner (nee Maher), 97, a life long resident of Ridgefield Park, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 15, 2024.  She was the beloved wife to the late Charles Garner.  Eileen was the devoted mother to Michelle Graves, Sheila Smith, and the late Judith Murray.  The greatest joy in her life were her cherished grandchildren Timothy, Melanie, Kevin, Chris, Daniel, Charles, Michael, Joey and 13 great grandchildren.  Eileen is survived by many loving nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her endeared siblings Sheila Mowatt, Thomas Maher, and Vincent Maher.

Eileen was born in New York, NY to the late Sabina (nee Koch) and Vincent Maher.  She earned a Master’s Degree in Education from Montclair University with a concentration in English and Special Education.  Teaching was Eileen’s passion she loved watching her students progress in academics, gain new knowledge, and grow a keen interest about a new subject.  In 1981 Princton University granted her the distinguished Secondary School Teaching Award of Excellence.  She spread her creativity, guidance, and positive approach to education in the Fort Lee, Maywood, and Ridgefield Park school districts.  She was a proud supporter of her community and was an active member of the Ridgefield Park Seniors and a faithful parishioner of St. Francis R.C. Church.  Eileen leaves fond memories to family and friends for her zest for life and spirited personality.  She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. 

A Memorial Service of Remembrance will be held on Friday, January 19^th beginning at 9 A.M. and concluding at 11 A.M followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Francis R.C. Church beginning at 11:30 A.M.  Cremation was private. 

In lieu of flowers please make donations in Eileen’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org or the American Parkinson Disease Association at www.apdaparkinson.org.