Emily A. Urbaniak

Emily Ann (Cirillo) Urbaniak passed away on November 25, 2025. She was born on February 4, 1939, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to Emma and Nicolas Cirillo, and she grew up on Staten Island, New York. Emily was the loving wife of the late Stanley Urbaniak, with whom she shared a life built on respect, love, and a steady partnership.

Emily spent her professional life teaching literature, most notably at St. Joseph’s High School in Montvale, New Jersey. After retiring, she continued offering support and guidance to others as a hospice support counselor and by leading a bereavement group at Our Lady of Mercy in Park Ridge. Her Catholic faith was a consistent and meaningful part of her life, and she remained closely connected to Our Lady of Mercy.

She enjoyed traveling, reading, writing, playing the guitar, and bird watching. Emily valued her relationships and put care into staying connected. She was known for her thoughtful nature and her ability to listen, whether through phone calls, handwritten cards, or conversations at her kitchen table. She took pride in her six grandchildren and loved creating moments her family would remember. Her kindness was steady and sincere, and she offered insights that were meaningful and lasting.

Emily is survived by her brother Anthony Cirillo and his wife Kathleen; her children David Urbaniak and his wife Erin, and their children Nicolas and Sofia; Daniel Urbaniak and his wife Carolyn, and their children Elizabeth and Noelle; Kristine Urbaniak; and Kate Dunham and her husband Andy Dunham, and their children Will and Faith.

Her family, friends, and former students will remember her for her compassion, her wisdom, and the gracious, thoughtful way she moved through the world.

Visitation will be held on Monday Dec. 1st from 10 am - 11 am at Our Lady of Mercy, Park Ridge. Funeral mass to follow at 11 am. Interment will be held at Ascension Cemetery Airmont, NY.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hospice Care at Villa Marie Claire

https://www.holyname.org/foundation/