Paulette E Krakowiecki

August 14, 1944 – June 3, 2025

With deep sorrow and enduring love, we announce the passing of Paulette Krakowiecki—a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Paulette passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, faith, and unwavering love.

Born on August 14, 1944, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Paulette was the daughter of the late Paul and Florence Tillotson. She carried the values they instilled in her throughout her life: devotion to family, faith in God, and kindness to others. She graduated from St. Patrick's High School in 1962.

Paulette was the beloved wife of James Krakowiecki for 61 years. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and strong family values. She was the proud and devoted mother of Scott, Keith, and Brent, and a loving mother-in-law to Rebecca. Her greatest joy came from her grandchildren, Keira and Payge, whom she adored with all her heart.

Paulette’s career was as diverse as it was fulfilling. She worked as a dental assistant, a clerk at Travelodge and Rutgers Libraries, and later retired from Bell/Verizon, where she was known for her warmth, reliability, and strong work ethic.

A devout Catholic, Paulette lived her faith daily—through prayer, service, and quiet acts of generosity. She was an active supporter of F.I.S.H., the “Adopt-a-Family” holiday program, and served as a Candy Striper at Elizabeth General Hospital—embodying a lifelong dedication to helping others.

Paulette found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid gardener, spreading peace and beauty through each bloom she tended. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and joy—an amazing cook, she filled her home with the delicious scents of home-cooked meals and the laughter of loved ones gathered together.

She is survived by her brother, Kenny Tillotson, and his wife Kathy; her nephew Paul and his wife Vanessa and their sons Ian and Aidan; her nieces Kasey and Jennifer Greve—all of whom she loved dearly. Paulette was also blessed with lifelong friendships that endured through the decades. She held deep and lasting bonds with her childhood and lifelong friends Eileen, Andrea, Theresa, Carol Ann and Skit.

Paulette’s life was defined by her deep faith, fierce love for her family, and her care for everyone around her. She gave selflessly, laughed freely, and lived with grace. She will be missed beyond words and remembered always

A Mass will be held at St. Adalbert’s Church in Elizabeth NJ on June 7th at 10:00 AM, with interment to follow at St. Gertrude Cemetery, Colonia, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Paulette’s memory may be made by providing school supplies to local schools or contributing to a charity of your choice—honoring her spirit of quiet generosity.