Sheila F. Kaufman

Sheila F. Kaufman, 90, passed away on May 31, 2026. Born on September 2, 1935, Sheila was born and raised in Newark, NJ, and later made her home in West Orange, New Jersey, where she lived for 68 years. Her life was marked by steady devotion to family, community, and a deep sense of purpose carried with dignity and grace.

Sheila pursued her education with determination, earning a Master’s degree from Kean College in Union, NJ. That commitment to learning and service continued throughout her professional life. She worked for the South Orange - Maplewood Board of Education for 25 years, retiring in 1998, and was respected for the reliability and care she brought to her work and to those around her.

Sheila was the beloved wife of the late Kenneth Kaufman, and a loving mother of Karen Marcus (Ira), Wendy Albers (the late Al), and Robin Strauss (the late Ken). She was a cherished grandmother of Jeffrey Marcus (Barbra), Eric Marcus (Shan), Daniel Albers (Samantha), Andrew Albers (Shayna), Carly Strauss (Jake), and Jake Strauss (Jill) and a devoted great grandmother of Lizzy, Noah, and Sarah Marcus, Lily Albers, Katie and Scarlett Strauss. She was also a sister to Jeri Friedman (the late Cy) and Elaine Taub (the late Elston).

In her community, Sheila remained engaged and present. She was a member of the JCC and CERT (Citizens Emergency Response Team), reflecting a quiet readiness to contribute and a consistent concern for the well-being of others.

An active presence throughout her life, Sheila embraced each season with energy and resolve—playing golf and pickleball until last year. Her example leaves a lasting legacy of joy and adventure.

A Graveside Service will be held at Mount Lebanon Cemetery, 189 Gill Ln, Woodbridge Township, NJ 08830, US, on June 2, 2026 at 11:00 am.