Patricia Anne Nebel, 93, was born on March 9, 1933, in Newark, New Jersey, and died on June 20, 2026. Raised in the Vailsburg section of Newark, Patricia carried forward a steady tenderness that showed itself most clearly in the way she cared—quietly, consistently, and with a compassion that made others feel safe and seen. In every season of life, she was deeply beloved, not for grand displays, but for the enduring warmth of her presence.
Patricia graduated from Marylawn of the Oranges Academy in South Orange, NJ, a foundation that accompanied her through a life shaped by devotion to home and family. A dedicated wife, mother and grandmother, she held her loved ones close at the center of her days; her family was, first and foremost, the most important part of her life.
In 1955, Patricia married the love of her life, Howard, and the pair built a life in Paramus, NJ, where they spent 30 years and raised their family. In 1985, Patricia moved to Lafayette, NJ, and in 2014 she settled in Wantage, NJ. Wherever she lived, she brought with her the same gentle steadiness—an attentive heart, an open hand, and a way of making ordinary moments feel quietly meaningful.
An avid reader, Patricia found companionship in books and the reflective peace of turning pages—an interest that suited her thoughtful spirit and offered its own kind of calm, faithful joy.
Patricia also gave generously of her time to others. She volunteered at Newton Medical Center for 20 years, offering care in the everyday ways that matter most. From 1970 to 1985, she was involved with Arc of Bergen and Passaic County. She was a member of St. Jude the Apostle R.C. Church in Hamburg, NJ, where faith and community provided a steady rhythm to her life.
Patricia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Howard Nebel; her father, Albert W. Baron; her brothers, Rev. John B. Baron, and Albert W. Baron, Jr.; her mother, Patricia R. (nee Nolan) Baron; and her son-in-law, Joe Mazzawi. She is survived by her children, Gregg Nebel (Analissa), Ward Nebel, Lissa Mazzawi, and Marinanci Post (Kevin); and 9 Grandchildren.
Visitation will be held from 2 pm to 4 pm on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Wood Funeral Home, 16 Main St., Branchville, NJ. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am on, Thursday, June 25, 2026, St. Jude the Apostle R.C. Church, 4 Beaver Run Rd, Hamburg, NJ. Following the Mass, Patricia will be laid to rest in Gate of Heaven Cemetery & Mausoleum, 225 Ridgedale Ave, East Hanover, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Avenue, Newton, NJ 07860, or online at https://karenannquinlanhospice.org/donate/.
Patricia’s life was a testament to love expressed through presence—through patience, service, and the faithful, compassionate attention that turns a family into a refuge. Her memory remains like a well-loved book: rich with meaning and returned to again and again.
Online condolences may be offered to the family below.
