Marie D. Hanlon

Marie Hanlon, a beloved presence in Hillsdale and to all fortunate enough to call her a friend, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2026, at the age of 96. She had a remarkable life in a community she loved, with a family she cherished and countless friends she was blessed with all her life.

Born in Paterson, Marie settled in Hillsdale where she resided for 65 years. She taught 5th grade for 44 years in Hillsdale schools. Marie loved teaching and developed strong and enduring friendships with generations of students and their families.

Marie's days were enriched by the many organizations in which she served and clubs she enjoyed including Westwood UNICO as the first female president, her wine club, book club, Republican club, and as president of Hillsdale's 50 Plus Club for over 25 years. Her love of travel had her spanning the globe reaching 5 continents. Never without a furry companion, Marie's dogs were pampered treasures including her beloved Cassie.

Marie was a member of many borough committees. She served as council president, was co-chairperson of the Hillsdale Centennial Committee and chairperson of the Memorial Day parade, among many other contributions. She also served as a Hillsdale Library Board Trustee.

Family was the center of Marie's world. She was predeceased by her beloved mother Joan and stepfather Michael, brother Charles and cousins Rosalie and husband William, and Joseph and wife Rose, whom she loved dearly. She is lovingly remembered with deep affection by her nieces Lisa (goddaughter) and husband Brian, Paula, her nephew William and wife Marianne, and her sister-in-law Faye. Marie adored her great-nieces Alexandra, Kristina and Kristen, and great-nephew Steven, of whom she was so proud and delighted in their presence. She is also survived by her dearest friend Joanne, her son Steven, Marie's Godson, and beloved nieces Laura, Carole and Joan, and nephew John.

Marie was the heart and soul of the family that she cherished. She would brighten a room and make ordinary moments special. With laughter and wit, warmth and generosity, she brought joy to all around her.

The family invites all whose lives were touched by Marie to share memories and celebrate a life so richly lived at a visitation on Thursday, October 1. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Marie can be made to Wounded Warrior Project at support.woundedwarriorproject.org

Visitation will be held at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ 07675, US, on October 1, 2026, from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, 69 Valley St, Hillsdale, NJ 07642, US, on October 2, 2026, at 10:30 am.