Jo-Ann Von Rapacki (nee Spano), 76, passed away suddenly on Friday, February 27, 2026.  Jo-Ann was a lifelong resident of Lyndhurst and she leaves behind a community that was brighter because of her presence.  Deeply devoted to her family, friends, neighbors, and the town she proudly called home, Jo-Ann lived a life centered on love and connection. Known for her warm smile and welcoming spirit, Jo-Ann had a personality that instantly put others at ease. She was incredibly friendly, genuinely kind, and the type of person everyone was drawn to. To know her was to love her, and she was truly loved by all who had the privilege of crossing her path.  Jo-Ann proudly supported the Lyndhurst Police Department and its officers, and she held a strong appreciation and respect for our veterans.  She also had a deep love for animals, caring for them with the same tenderness and compassion she showed to people.  Jo-Ann was an administrative assisant for Comcast in North Arlington followed by working at the Meadowlands Chamber of Commerce where she formed many friendships with those she met and worked with over the years.  

Jo-Ann is survived by her beloved husband of 56 years and high school sweetheart, George Von Rapacki.  She is now reunited with their forever cherished son, Lyndhurst Police Officer Keith Von Rapacki who passed away far too young in 2003.  Jo-Ann was the dear sister of Peter Spano, Anthony Spano and his wife, Giovanna, and the late Joseph Spano, caring sister-in-law of the late Albert Von Rapacki and his late wife, Carol and Ruth Tocci and her husband, Vincent, and adoring Aunt to many nieces and nephews.  She will be deeply missed by her cousins, especially her “Cousins Club,” whose monthly breakfast gatherings will certainly be missing her smile and lively spirit, by her fur babies, Hannah and Brody, and by her Zumba friends, with whom she bonded with while taking classes together. 

It is difficult to put into words just how much Jo-Ann meant to everyone, and how much her loved ones meant to her. Still, we take comfort in knowing that her family and friends always felt that love, and that it was deeply mutual.

Cremation will be held privately.  Relatives and friends are invited to attend the memorial visitation at Nazare Memorial Home, Inc., 403 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst, NJ on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 from 5 - 8 PM.  All will gather at the funeral home on Thursday, March 12 at 9 AM where a memorial service will begin at 10 AM.  Interment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. You may express your condolences to Jo-Ann's family by using our tribute wall.