Mary Jane Speciale

Mary Jane Speciale (née Grimes), age 92, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025. Born at the family home in Dumont, NJ, she remained a lifelong resident of the Garden State and was the cherished eldest daughter of the late Thomas and Margaret Grimes.

A graduate of Dumont High School, Mary Jane—known fondly as Jane—pursued her calling in nursing at the Holy Name Hospital Nursing Program, where she earned her RN degree.

She began her professional journey in obstetrics, offering compassionate care to mothers and their newborns. Later, at North Jersey Physical Therapy Institute, she served as a rehabilitation aide for both pediatric and geriatric patients, always bringing warmth and encouragement to those in her care.



Jane shared a loving 69-year marriage with her husband, Bill Speciale. They built a life centered on family. Together they raised four children: Terri Withington (Michael), Nancy Velordi (James), Tina McGill (Timothy), and Bill (Christine). Her love extended deeply into the next generations—cherished grandchildren Sara, Nick, Michael, Matthew, Will, and Sam; great-grandchildren Wells and Nollie. She loved all the family parties with her sister Michelle Forshee and brother-in-law Ray, their children Michael, Susan and Jennifer and the many cousins, neighbors and friends who gathered to laugh and celebrate together.

From family travels to Georgia and Massachusetts, to peaceful days at home in Oradell with Bill by her side, Jane embraced each moment with fulfillment and happiness.

A woman of many talents; her hands were rarely still, whether sewing heartfelt gifts, baking treats for family gatherings, or tackling challenging puzzles with quiet determination. She found delight in bowling strikes, the camaraderie of her teammates and cheering on others. Exchanging stories with her grandchildren made her immensely happy and filled her heart with joy.

Jane's faith was a cornerstone of her life. A devoted parishioner of Sacred Heart R.C. Church in Haworth, NJ, her volunteer efforts with church fundraisers and the Pascack Valley Hospital Auxiliary reflected her unwavering commitment to community.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.

The family held a private burial. A Celebration of Jane’s life is being planned for the Spring of 2026. Donations may be made in her name to: Valley Hospital Foundation @ Valleyhospitalfoundation.org/donate and/or The Passionists of the St. Paul of the Cross Province @ Thepassionists.org/give