Mary Paolazzi (née Zdanowicz), 54, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Mary was born in Jersey City and lived in Lyndhurst for 24 years.  She married the love of her life, David Paolazzi, in 2000 and moved to North Arlington to a warm, joy-filled home and raised two wonderful sons, Michael and Stephen, who were the absolute light of her life.

Mary was a passionate, kindergarten teacher for over 30 years, most of that time spent at Nishuane Elementary School in Montclair. She loved her students as if they were her own, and they loved her right back. Her impact was felt far beyond the classroom walls.

Anyone who knew Mary could see how much she enjoyed life.  She made you feel instantly at ease with her comforting smile and her warm personality. She truly loved being surrounded by family and friends. Her laughter, love and ability to make you feel special are the things that will be remembered the most. 

Mary leaves behind her devoted husband of nearly 25 years, David, and their cherished sons, Michael and Stephen. She is also survived by her loving parents, James and Kathleen Zdanowicz (née Carlson), her dear sister Jill Rado and husband Todd, her in-laws Ernest and Carol Paolazzi, her brothers-in-law Greg Paolazzi (and wife Donna) and Tommy Paolazzi (and wife Leanne), and many adoring nieces and nephew — all of whom brought her immense pride and joy.

Family and friends are invited attend the visitation on Sunday, June 22, 2025, from 1 to 5 PM at Nazare Memorial Home, 403 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst, NJ. On Monday, June 23, everyone is welcome to gather at the funeral home at 9 AM, followed by a 10 AM Funeral Mass at St. Michael’s Church in Lyndhurst. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington.

Mary touched countless lives with her kindness, compassion, and unwavering love — she will be missed more than words can say. You may express your condolences to Mary’s family by using our tribute wall.