Douglas “Doug” Taub passed away at home in Norwood, New Jersey on July 9, 2024, after a brief illness.  Doug was born on January 20, 1954, in Englewood, New Jersey. 

Doug will be loved and missed forever by the love of his life and soulmate, Phaedra Britt.  Doug and Phaedra met at Pace Law School in 1999 and were married on October 27, 2001.  Throughout their 25 years together, Doug and Phaedra were the best of friends and partners in every way. 

Doug is survived by his mother-in-law Marie Britt; father-in-law John Britt; brother-in-law Michael Britt; nephew Jayden Britt and niece Isabella Britt; childhood friends Arthur Romano, Michael Amatulli and Kip Hoskin; and goddaughter Lindsey Romano.  Doug leaves behind many friends, colleagues and clients, all of whom loved and respected him for his generosity and kindness. 

Doug was a silver-tongued orator with a rapier wit and expressive personality.  Doug’s off-beat perspective provided a refreshing viewpoint and reliable counterbalance to any conversation or situation.  Whether he was making us laugh or shocking us with an unconventional analysis, Doug entertained us constantly and with aplomb.  Doug was a sharp dresser who was often seen wearing his Clark Gable hat.  His thick, dark hair made him the envy of follically-challenged men everywhere.

Doug graduated from Wayne Hills High School in 1972.  After a brief attendance at Jacksonville University, Doug joined his family’s corrugated box manufacturing business in Montgomery, New York, where he managed both operations and sales.  In the mid 1990’s, Doug left the box business and pursued his dream of becoming a lawyer.  He received his undergraduate degree from Fairleigh Dickinson in 1997 then immediately enrolled in Pace Law School at the age of 43. 

After graduating law school, Doug worked as an associate practicing bankruptcy law at a firm in Rockland County, New York, before becoming a solo practitioner in 2003.  Doug’s law practice focused on criminal defense and representing the underdog.  He enjoyed practicing in White Plains City Court and Hastings-on-Hudson Justice Court.  Phaedra joined him in his practice in 2007 and they formed the law firm of Britt & Taub, PLLC.  Doug and Phaedra practiced together, side by side, for seven years.  After Phaedra left the practice in 2015, Doug continued as a solo practitioner until his passing in 2024. 

Doug was a lifelong musician.  He played guitar, bass and piano.  His love of guitar playing began at age 10, when he watched in awe as the Beatles performed on the Ed Sullivan Show on February 9, 1964. Starting in middle school and throughout his life, Doug played bass guitar in many rock-and-roll bands.  In 1978, Doug and his friends, Mike Amatulli, Brian Murphy and Jim Pardo formed the GoghVans.  Years later, in 1992, Doug, Mike and Brian joined musical forces again in Murph the Surf and the Family Jewels.  Doug and Mike later performed as the “Diamond Boys” with their former GoghVans bandmate, Jim.  After starting his solo practice and joining the legal community in White Plains, Doug played his bass in bands with his attorney and court officer friends in Westchester County.  In 2018, Doug joined School’s Out, an Alice Cooper tribute band.  The most exciting moment in Doug’s music career was his first gig with School’s Out, which was at The Chance in Poughkeepsie.

Doug was proud of his accomplishments as a Formula Ford racecar driver from the late 1970s through the early 1990s.  Doug raced on weekends with his close friend and fellow racing enthusiast, Kip Hoskin, in Mont-Tremblant, Canada.  In addition to Doug’s behind-the-wheel experience, he was a Formula One aficionado.  Although Doug owned many sports cars throughout the years, his 2017 Maximum Steel Metallic Dodge Challenger R/T was his pride and joy.  Doug maintained his Hemi in pristine condition, even as a daily driver, and found a multitude of ways to increase the horsepower.  After Doug brought the Challenger into the family, Doug and Phaedra attended car shows and car cruises whenever and wherever possible.

In Doug’s last email to a court, Doug explained that he had just been released from the hospital after major surgery and was unable to appear with his client in court later that week.  In the email, Doug quoted his hero, John Lennon: “Life is what happens when you are busy making other plans.” 

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale, NJ.

Gerard Joseph Herrling, affectionately known to his inner circle as Monk, and to wife, Carole, as G-man, and to his former employees as Mr. H, was born on Feb 1, 1955, in Brooklyn, NY. He was the youngest of three children to Francis and Julia Herrling.

In 1969, he attended Loyola School where he participated in baseball, soccer, basketball and he also directed lighting at school plays and dances. He was on the yearbook and newspaper committees and down the road became the President of the Alumni Association for many years and then an Emeritus member.  Gerry obtained his Bachelors Degree in Business and Marketing from NYU’s Stern School of Business.

Around 1974, early in his work career, Gerry worked as a Production Manager for Catherine Stein, a trendy and well-known jeweler on 5^th Avenue in New York. Following that, Gerry became a true credit union champion. In 1980, he began working at Municipal Credit Union, where he held various positions in multiple departments, and developed an extensive network of professional and personal contacts. He particularly enjoyed working with his mentor, William Porter, for whom he had the greatest respect and affection.

After 27 years of service at MCU, he went on to share his expertise at other credit unions including, Bethex FCU, Quorum, United Nations FCU, and most recently GTE Financial CU.

Gerry loved all NY sports teams, especially the NY Knicks, Yankees, and NY Liberty, attending games frequently with his wife, Carole.

His love story with Carole began in 1983, where they bumped into each other at MCU. At the time, she was working at Citibank and he at MCU. In 1995, Carole went on to join MCU, where both she and Gerry were famous for their little battles over credit union operations. In 2005, these battles turned into a wonderful love story, ending up in marriage in 2014. Gerry not only became part of Carole’s life as her husband, but also dad to both of Carole’s adoring children, Christina and Christopher.  He welcomed both children into his life, treated them like his own and loving them with a fierceness.

Gerry loved attending Christian Cultural Center (CCC) in Brooklyn with Carole every Sunday, arriving an hour and a half before service commenced, making sure they were always on time. In 2012, after becoming a member at CCC, he was saved. He loved his Christian church community, learning and absorbing the teachings of his Pastor and enjoyed his Sunday chats with the various staff members and the elders. He enjoyed cruising with the Porters every other year.

In 2021, he and his beloved wife, Carole, relocated to South Florida, where they built their forever home and lived with their three dogs among their wonderful community of neighbors.

Gerry went to be with the Lord on the morning of September 18^th. He leaves to mourn the love of his life Carole; daughter Christina (Charles), and son Christopher; brothers Frank (Carol Kopec) and Anthony (Jane Haburay), brother-in-law Rashid Basir, nephew Michael Francis Herrling, nieces Lisa Ann Loney and Eliza Haburay-Herrling, mother-in-law Marianna Porter, and a host of other family, friends, and associates too numerous to mention.

Rest in Power Gerry. You will be missed tremendously by all who knew you.

Visiting hours are Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 11 AM to 1 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale, NJ. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM.

The service at 11 AM can viewed through the livestream link below:

https://boxcast.tv/view/gerard-joseph-herrling-funeral-service-uhbzdhzbimuzyrqlpi1m

Joyce Saydah (nee Ontra), 92, of Closter, peacefully passed away surrounded by family on Saturday, September 28, 2024. Beloved wife of the late Theodore Michael Saydah for 63 years. Devoted mother of Gerard and wife Judy, JoAnne Therese, Jenifer Saydah and fiancé Kevin, and Jill Marie Ross and late husband George. Adored grandmother (Emmy) of Erica Joyce DiMarzo and husband Rob, Michelle Saydah, Mary Gabrielle Saydah and fiancé Jorge, Theo Saydah and wife Danu, and James Saydah. Dearest sister of the late Rose Marie Kenney and Joseph Ontra. Loving aunt of many nieces and nephews, and dear friend to countless others.

Joyce graduated from Notre Dame Academy, Albertus Magnus College, and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Manhattan. She began her career as an actress on Broadway and received a contract offer from CBS. Joyce wholeheartedly chose love and marriage to her soulmate, Ted, and starting their family over career. Joyce was fluent in four languages and privately tutored students in French, Spanish, and Latin. She had also been Public Assistance Director in Closter for many years, founding Closter’s first Food Locker, now known as the Closter Food Pantry. She was an active parishioner of St. Mary’s Church, Closter, and along with her husband, Ted, taught CCD. Joyce’s warmth, faith, kindness, and dedication to helping others will be remembered and continues on through her loved ones. 

Visiting hours will be Tuesday, October 1, 2024 from 11 AM to 1 PM, at which time a funeral service will be held at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale, NJ (201-767-3050). Interment will follow at Rockland Cemetery, Sparkill, NY. 

A charity close to Joyce’s heart is the NJ Rett Syndrome Association. Donations in her memory may be made to NJRSA, www.njrsa.org.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Frank J. Cucchiara Jr, 98, of Northvale, NJ, passed away on Saturday, September 28, 2024. Born in Brooklyn, NY on September 6, 1926 to Frank and Lucia Cucchiara. Beloved husband of the late Glenna (nee Nelson). Cherished father of Donna D’Ercole and husband Joseph of Norwood and Frank J. Cucchiara III of Westwood. Proud grandfather of Dawn, Kim, Frank IV and Joseph. Adored great-grandfather of Sean Jr., Jake, Jordana, Ashley, Shaylin, Shane, Siena, Frank V, Mia and Ellie Rey. Dear brother of the late Rose Buongiorno and Martha Descarfino.

Frank was a US Navy Veteran of WWII. He worked for JB Offset Printing for over 50 years where he printed most local newspapers as well as the Italian newspapers, Il Progresso and American Oggi.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at 11 AM at St. Anthony’s RC Church, Northvale with interment to follow at Rockland Cemetery, Sparkill, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org, would be greatly appreciated.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Mary Butler (nee Genovas), 88, of Blauvelt, NY, died Wednesday, September 25, 2024, in Miami, FL. Mary was born on September 11, 1936, in New York City, daughter of the late Fannie & Gregory Genovas. 

She was predeceased by her loving husband of 55 years, Daniel Butler (2014). Mary is survived by her five children, Sharon Nulty, Sabrina Durrigan (husband, Wayne), Denise Catalano (husband, Carmine), Danny Butler & Jennifer Butler. She was the proud Nana of eight grandchildren, Danielle & Brendan Nulty, Jeff & Alyssa Durrigan, Valerie, Melanie & Kristie Catalano, Jaden Butler & the new joy in her life, her great-granddaughter, Mila Catalano. She is also survived by her sister, Toni Vallone of CA and brother, Michael Genovas of NY. She is predeceased by four brothers and one sister. Also, loving aunt to numerous nieces and nephews and her extended family, Stacey, Richie, Alexa & Brittney Lucas.

Mary enjoyed being with her family, doing yard work, a good meal out, listening to music & dancing. Mary lived in Blauvelt for over 50 years before moving to Florida in 2018.

Services honoring Mary will be held at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale, NJ 07647 on Sunday, October 6, 2024 from 2-6. A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, October 7, 2024, at St. Catherine’s Church, Blauvelt, NY at 10:00am. Interment to follow at Gate of Heaven, Hawthorne, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org,

would be greatly appreciated.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Rosemary Jones (nee Greenleaf), 92, of Northvale, NJ, passed away at home on Wednesday, September 25, 2024. Beloved wife of the late Paul. Devoted mother of Paul, Jr. and wife Kathy, the late Peter and his wife Diane, Richard, Steven, Thomas, Michael, Mary Barbera and late husband Philip and Ann Marie Protus and late husband James. Proud grandmother of Christopher, Matthew, Michael, Jr. and Sydney. Dearest sister of Theresa Prezioso and the late Robert Greenleaf, Joseph Greenleaf and Gladys Chandler.

Rosemary was a parishioner of St. Anthony’s Church, Northvale and was a member of the choir for over 30 years. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and also volunteered her time for years at the Nathan Hale School Library.

Visiting hours are Monday, September 30, 2024 from 5-8 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at 10 AM at St. Anthony’s Church, Northvale with interment to follow at Tappan Cemetery, Tappan, NY.

Those who wish may make donations to St. Anthony’s Church, 199 Walnut St., Northvale, NJ 07647 in her memory.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Saverio Vicchio, 81, of Northvale, NJ, formerly of Cliffside Park, NJ, passed away on Sunday, September 15, 2024. Beloved husband of Nancy (nee Melluso). Cherished father of Amy Stitz and her husband Scott. Proud grandfather of Sofia and Tiffani. Dearest brother of Pierina Leggio.

Saverio was a tailor for the Brem Group in Paterson, NJ for many years before retiring. He loved his family, good food and soccer.  

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 2 PM at St. Anthony’s RC Church, Northvale.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Filomena Affinito (nee D’Agostino), 90, of Northvale, NJ, formerly of North Bergen, NJ entered into her eternal rest on Monday, September 16, 2024.  Filomena was born in Giovinazzo, Bari, Italy on September 8, 1934 to Micheal and AnnaRosa D’Agostino. She celebrated her milestone 90th Birthday with her family by her side. Beloved wife of the late Domenico Sr. Loving mother of Felice Affinito and fiance Grace Lopez, Maria Butler and husband James, Domenico Affinito Jr. and wife Laura, and the late Roseann Affinito.  Adored grandmother (Nonna) to Krystal, Brianna, and Madison.  Caring sister of Franco D’Agostino, the late Savino, the late Giuseppe, and the late Isabella Cortese.

Filomena was a devoted parishioner of St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church.  She attended weekly masses and prayed the Novena daily. She was passionate about cooking and enjoyed cooking for everyone, especially family Sunday dinners. Filomena was loved and adored by her surrounding community. Above all, Filomena loved her family more than anything. She will be dearly missed but will stay with us forever in our hearts. 

Visiting hours are Thursday, September 19, 2024, from 4-8 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale, NJ.  A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church, 199 Walnut St. Northvale, NJ on Friday, September 20, 2024, at 10 AM with entombment to follow at Fairview Mausoleum in Fairview, NJ.

The funeral mass can be viewed via livestream at the link below: https://boxcast.tv/view/filomena-affinito-funeral-mass-oekn7v3uo9ntnjcsii5l

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Jennifer Gabriella Howard of Rockland County, NY passed away at home after a brief illness on Friday, September 6, 2024.  Jennifer was born and raised in Rockland and attended Tappan Zee High School.   She graduated from Dominican College and obtained her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing and received her master’s degree from Long Island University in Hospital Administration.  She was currently employed at Stamford Hospital in Stamford, Connecticut as a Case Manager and throughout her career worked at Nyack Hospital and Dobbs Ferry Hospital NY and US Healthcare.   She was very accomplished in her field and always set the highest standards for herself and those in her care.

Jennifer valued her family and friends so deeply and her friendships go back to kindergarten.   She was a very loyal friend to all who knew her.  She will be dearly missed by her beloved sister Judieann Howard Pereira and Brother-In-Law Mark J. Pereira.  She was the very proud Aunt of beloved niece, Lindsay Pereira Guthier (Justin) and their children, Declan, Niall, Maeve and Rosaleen;  beloved nephews Travis A. Pereira, James D. Howard and Cory R. Howard and his daughter Madison, and sister-in-law Leslie Howard. She is predeceased by her parents Aaron A. Howard and Elena F. Howard; her brother Andrew J. Howard and sister Elena M. Howard. She adored spending time with her cousins and friends.

The family will receive her friends and family  on Friday, September 20, 2024 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale, NJ 07647.  A memorial service will follow at 12:30 PM.    A private burial has been planned. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to either Susan G. Komen Foundation, www.komen.org or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org in Jennifer’s memory.

Michael Ramirez, 70, of Dumont, passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 11, 2024. A New York sanitation worker from Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Michael led an adventurous life between New York and Puerto Rico. He had a deep love for the Knicks, the Giants, and his scratch-off tickets.

He is survived by his daughter, Regina Ramirez of Florida, and three grandchildren: Jessenia, Avery, and Michael. He also leaves behind his sister Janet Hernandez and her husband Ronald of Dumont, sister Elizabeth Colon of Florida and her husband Raymond, and sister Elsie Lugo of Dumont, along with many nieces and nephews.

Michael fought a long and courageous battle until his body could no longer fight, and he is now resting peacefully.

A wake will be held at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale, NJ on Sunday, September 15, from 12 PM to 2 PM.