Helen Carol Bottari, 67, of Northvale, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 29, 2026.
Helen was born in the Bronx, New York, and grew up in Blauvelt, New York. She attended Albertus Magnus High School and graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, New York. She dedicated many years to education and was a beloved teacher at Paramus Catholic High School, where she touched the lives of countless students through her compassion, faith, and commitment to learning.
Helen was the devoted and adored mother of Andre “Andy” Baez and the proud grandmother of Aubrey Jade Baez, who was truly the light of her life. She is also survived by her loving brother, Michael Bottari; his wife, Michele; and their daughter, Christina.
Helen had a special love for animals, especially her faithful dog, Snoopy, who brought her immeasurable comfort and companionship. Above all else, Helen’s greatest love was her faith. She found tremendous joy in talking about Jesus and faithfully praying for her family and friends.
Helen was a true fighter. During the past nine months, she courageously battled pancreatic cancer with remarkable strength, determination, and unwavering faith. She faced every challenge with grace and resilience, continuing to embrace life and cherish time with those she loved until the disease ultimately claimed her life.
Helen will be remembered for her steadfast faith, gentle spirit, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was a loving mother, cherished grandmother, devoted sister, dedicated teacher, and loyal friend whose presence brought comfort and inspiration to many.
Visiting hours will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026 from 4-8 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale, New Jersey.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at 10:00 AM at St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church, 199 Walnut Street, Northvale, New Jersey. Entombment will follow at Ascension Mausoleum in Airmont, New York.
Andy, I am so sorry to hear this news. Your Momma was a special lady. Always kind, always caring. May she rest in peace always looking down on you and Aubrey. xoxo
I will miss you
Mrs. Bottari was an incredible teacher, but an even better person. She made such a lasting impact on so many of us and helped make Paramus Catholic the special place it is. She touched the lives of so many Paladins, including mine, and I know she’ll never be forgotten. May God bless her, welcome her into His loving arms, and watch over the entire Bottari family during this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, Mrs. Bottari. Thank you for everything.
God rest your soul my old friend! You left all of us way too soon! Fond memories of you, your mom and dad. Blessed to have known you for so many years
Helen, I will always remember you smiling & laughing. Andy she was so proud of you; you blessed her with your beautiful daughter. Hold on to the memories. Im truly sorry for your loss. Helen may you rest in peace.
Helen was wise , gentle, devoted and full of grace. She possessed a wicked sense of humor!!
She will be missed by all who knew her. Much love to Andy and Aubrey.
May God rest her soul. She was such an awesome teacher one of my favorites and the reason I play music at the start of my nursing shifts for my patients-something she did at the start of her class each time I had her❤️thank you for everything Mrs. Bottari
Michael,
From this text, I can see what a gentle person your sister was. I am sure all her loving acts will be rewarded and she is in the presence of God now. May Him give your heart the comfort you need.
Andy,
Our sincere condolences. Your mother was a sweetheart. I will remember her fondly.
She was always proud of you. XOXO
We are so sorry to hear of your Moms passing Andy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May all your joyous memories stay with you today and always.
Helen you were such a strong woman and role model. You loved and were so dedicated to your son. And you absolutely loved being a Grandmother. What an azing woman you were. My deepest condolences to Andy and family.
Mrs. Bottari was my favorite teacher in high school. She was a blessing me and my friends are forever grateful for. My deepest condolences to the Bottari family, to her son and granddaughter, and all those who got to know this incredible woman.
Rest in peace Mrs. Bottari, thank you for everything.
Dear Andy, I am so sorry to know this. Your mom was such a wonderful, kind lady. I have fond memories of her bringing you to the library and Story Hour. You have my sincerest condolences and prayers.