Roxbury Township. Mr. Richard Mike Morgan, Jr., died on February 25, 2026 at St. Clare’s Hospital in Denville. He was born in Dover, NJ and lived in the Berkshire Valley part of Roxbury Township all of his life. He attended Roxbury High School, and was an avid hunter and fisherman.

He is survived by his parents Richard, Sr. and Patricia (Jones) Morgan of Roxbury Township, and by his sister Kelly Morgan of Byram. He also leaves his nieces Brittany  Westerkamp and Brianna May, and great nieces and nephews Jaxson and Laurel, Weston and Scarlett.

Friends may visit at the Davis & Hepplewhite Funeral Home, 96 Main Street, Succasunna, NJ 07876  (973) 584-7264 on Sunday, March 1^st, from 3 – 6 pm.

Mt. Bethel, PA.   Mrs. Donna L (Andrews) Davis, 70, of Mt. Bethel, PA passed away peacefully at her home on February 21, 2026. She was born May 27, 1955 in Dover, NJ to the late Clifton P and Ethel Andrews.

Donna grew up in Kenvil, NJ and was a 1973 graduate of Roxbury High School. She worked for many years as a physical therapy aide at Dover General Hospital.

She is survived by her loving husband Douglas Davis, sons Jason (and Jennie) and Jeff Merklin and daughter Kimberly Merklin. Donna is also survived by her 6 grandchildren; Kaitlyn, Carly, Jonas, Dove, Myla, and Landon, her sister Patricia Andrews, and brother Clifton E. Andrews.

She will be missed by her feline companions, Conner, Corey, and Caley.

A graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are by the Davis & Hepplewhite Funeral Home, 96 Main Street, Succasunna, NJ 07876.

(973) 584-7264.

Alfred Herman Franz, 85, a longtime resident of Ledgewood, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Dover, Al was the youngest of three sons of Erich and Gertrude Franz. He grew up on Indian Lake, where his love of both athletics and the outdoors took root. A standout track and cross-country runner at Morris Hills High School, he also relished playing hockey on the frozen lake with his brothers and friends and shooting hoops whenever he could. Recognized early for his sharp mind through his school’s co-op program, Al was hired immediately out of high school by Picatinny Arsenal in Dover. While working there, he simultaneously attended Virginia Tech, earning a degree in Electrical Engineering. At Picatinny, he built a distinguished 43-year career. His work took him around the world, contributing to critical advancements in U.S. defense technology, and he and his team received special recognition in robotics-his team’s Inventory Robot even made an appearance on the History Channel.

Al inherited his deep appreciation for nature from his father, who immigrated to the United States from Dresden, Germany. Family vacations were often spent camping along the shores and islands of Lake George a tradition that became even more meaningful when the family purchased a lakefront cabin in Northwest Bay in 1958. Once established in his career, Al bought a neighboring lakefront cabin of his own, pouring his hands, hard work, and creativity into transforming it. With every board he replaced and every improvement he crafted himself, he shaped a beautiful retreat that complemented—rather than competed with—the natural beauty surrounding it. Over time, the cabin became a cherished gathering place for generations. There, he was happiest waterskiing across Northwest Bay, fishing from the dock, teaching his grandchildren to dive, or taking sunset boat rides with his beloved wife in search of loons—moments that defined his idea of a life well lived.

His love of skiing led him to join the Craigmeur Ski Club and later the Craigmeur Ski Lodge, opening doors to slopes across the United States and Europe. It was through this community that friends introduced him to Suellen Scanlan, a young teacher from Pompton Plains who shared his passion for the sport. They connected instantly and were married in 1972. After a short time in Lake Hopatcong, they settled in Ledgewood in 1975, where they raised their daughters, Helene and Erica. Al was a devoted and present father—his girls remember him as their most enthusiastic cheerleader and, quite possibly, the loudest voice on the sidelines. Together, he and Suellen instilled in them a strong commitment to education and a lasting foundation in their Catholic faith.

When grandchildren Vida, Jonah, and Isaac arrived, Al embraced grandfatherhood with the same steady love and dedication that had defined his fatherhood. It wasn’t long before he became lovingly known as their Papa—a name that reflected not just affection, but the deep bond they shared. He went to their concerts, games, and recitals, always offering quiet pride and encouragement. His unwavering presence created memories his grandchildren will carry with them forever.

Al’s generous spirit extended well beyond his family life. He spent many devoted many years of service to organizations that were meaningful to him. At Lake George, he served as President of the Lake George Seniors for eight years and as President of the Rock Cove Homeowners Association for several decades, helping to strengthen the community he loved so deeply. His passion for skiing and fellowship also led him to leadership roles with the Craigmeur Ski Club, where he served as President, and the Craigmeur Ski Lodge of West Rutland, Vermont, where he served as Treasurer. These positions reflected not only his organizational talents, but also the trust and admiration he earned from friends and neighbors throughout his life.

Al is lovingly survived by his wife, Suellen; his children, Helene Franz, and Erica Quintero and her husband Kevin; and his beloved grandchildren, Vida, Jonah and Isaac. He was predeceased by his brothers, Arthur & Erich.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation on Sunday from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and Monday from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Scanlan’s Funeral Home, Pompton Plains, and on Tuesday from 4:00–8:00 p.m. at Davis & Hepplewhite Funeral Home, Succasunna. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. at St. Matthew the Apostle RC Church, Randolph. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Magnificat Church Cemetery, Kinnelon.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Al’s memory to the Lake George Land Conservancy, 4905 Lake Shore Drive, Bolton Landing, NY 12814 or to the Oncology & Hematology Specialists, 333 Rt. 46 Mountain Lakes, NJ would be greatly appreciated.

Al’s life was one of devotion, to family, to community, and to living each day with purpose, and his legacy will continue to guide those he leaves behind.

Mrs. Frances (Pirro) Palumbo, 94, died on February 2, 2026 at home. Born to Nicolas and Margaret Pirro in Fairview, NJ, Fran, as she was fondly called, grew up in Cliffside Park, and later moved to Union City. Fran was the third of six children and is survived by her sister Mary “Babe” Kaufman, brother Nick Pirro (Maggie), and her sister-in-law Marie Miller. She was predeceased by her brothers Louis (Ella), Joseph, and Nicholas “Jr.”

She was a New Jerseyan through and through, eventually leaving Union City for Jersey City, where she settled down and raised her family. Fran was predeceased by her husband, Bartolomeo “Bud” Palumbo in 2021, to whom she was married for fifty-nine years. She met him in the dance hall, and surely now, Fran and Bud are doing the Lindy Hop in Heaven’s dance hall.

Later, Fran and Bud moved to Ledgewood to be closer to their kids and grandkids. Fran’s grandkids were her world; not only did she scarcely miss a graduation or a summer trip to the Jersey Shore, but she showed up for the small things too, like the dance recitals and basketball games. Fran and Bud liked the arcades and the boardwalk zeppole just as much as the days when there wasn’t anything to celebrate, and the family would play cards and board games at the dinner table or organize an impromptu caravan to Mt. Airy casino. Well into her nineties, Fran was still playing the slots and testing her luck.
She is survived by four children: Debbie Manzo (Paul), Michael Palumbo (Amy), Diane O’Hea (Jimmy), and Nicole Nickerson (Robbie). Fran’s kids grew up with Sunday dinners and bellies full of meatballs and gravy, and this was a tradition she carried on as she cooked for her eleven grandchildren: Nicholas, Daniel, Brianna, Vincent, Andrew, Shawn, Giancarlo, Luke, Logan, Scarlett, and Gabi.

Fran was not only a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, but also an avid mystery reader, an active participant when jeopardy was on TV, and a lover of the nostalgic, black-and-white Turner Classic Movies.

Lovingly written by Jill Crocetta

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Mr. Robert William “Rob” Schumacher, a brilliant chemist and engineer, devoted family man, and generous volunteer, passed away on January 26, 2026 at the age of 73.

Born in Rockaway, NY on February 5, 1952 to William Schumacher and Winifred (nee Dicks) Schumacher, he eventually attended Nassau Community College and the State University of New York at Oneonta, pursuing his love of science by earning a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry. He would go on to earn two Master’s Degrees in Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry at St. John’s University in Queens, NY.

He was a longtime chemist at Warner-Lambert in Long Island City, NY and Morris Plains, NJ before finishing his career as a Product Development Chemist at Glaxo Smith Kline in Parsippany, NJ.

While working at Warner-Lambert in Long Island City, he would meet his wife Cynthia. They would marry in August 1977 and move to Kenvil, NJ in 1983, where he would raise his two sons, Nicholas and Jonathan. He could always be found around his family, as he was always present at school plays, on the sidelines at the soccer field, or that one time he filled in as an umpire at a Little League game.

Rob also dedicated much of his time to volunteering. He served on the Church Council at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Succasunna, NJ, where he was a longtime member; it was during this time that he helped to re-write the church’s Constitution. He was active as an adult leader with Boy Scout Troop 54 in Succasunna, NJ, acting as the Troop’s Treasurer for several years. After retirement, he enjoyed dedicating his time to volunteering with Roxbury Social Services, working primarily with their Food Pantry.

He is survived by his wife Cynthia (nee Crawford) Schumacher of 48 years, his sons Nicholas and Jonathan Schumacher; his daughter-in-law Kaitlyn (nee Ketterman) Schumacher; his grandchildren Luna, Theodore (“Teddy”), and Ivy; and his nephews, George and Christopher Kuenneke. He is pre-deceased by his parents, William and Winifred; his sister, Elaine; and his beloved one-eyed cat, Scarlet.

Arrangements are by the Davis and Hepplewhite Funeral Home, 96 Main Street, Succasunna, NJ 07876 (973-584-7264). Friends may visit on Sunday, February 1^st from 5 – 7 pm. The Funeral Service will be held on Monday Feb 2^nd, 2026 at 11 am, at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rob’s memory to the Sarcoma Foundation of America, (https://curesarcoma.org/) or the Parkinson’s Foundation (https://www.parkinson.org/).

Rob will be deeply missed and forever loved and remembered. His memory will live on in the hearts of everyone that knew him.

Robert Francis Totaro

Robert Francis Totaro, 90, of Succasunna, passed away peacefully on the morning of January 24, 2026, surrounded by family.

Born in Weehawken, he spent 52 years in Clifton, later moving to Succasunna. Robert was an Army Veteran, after serving 2 years during the Korean War.

Robert was a Journeyman Wireman who was initiated into the IBEW in 1953 and retired in 2003.

Beloved husband of Helen Totaro (nee Chandler). Loving father of Lisa Baurys, Matthew Totaro and partner Bonnie Sullivan, and Christopher Totaro and wife Adriana (nee DeStefano). Robert enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren Bryan Baurys and Erica (nee Miller), Taylor Baurys, Julia

Totaro and Matthew Totaro.  Also he was great grandfather to Mason Baurys and Logan Baurys.

Robert enjoyed traveling with his wife and family, listening to music especially Frank Sinatra, and was an aficionado of classic films.

Robert was predeceased by his parents Grace Madeline (nee Shafer) and Joseph Totaro. Aso predeceased by two brothers Joseph Totaro and wife Virginia, and Ralf Totaro and wife Rosemarie, along with many cousins nieces and nephews.

No services will be at this time, A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements are by the Davis and Hepplewhite Funeral Home, 96 Main Street, Succasunna, NJ 07876 (973-584-7264).

Parsippany, NJ.    Mrs. Carol L. Farina, 83, died on January 23, 2026 at the Jefferson Hospital in Sewell, NJ. She was born in Wilkes-Barre, PA and lived in Parsippany for over 65 years. She was a retired clerical worker for Bell Laboratories in Whippany many years ago where she met her husband Michael P. Farina. She was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother who loved spending time with her family and doing fun things together. Her hobbies included sewing, crocheting, ceramics and making stained glass items.

She was predeceased by her brother Kenneth Lalley in 1965, Father William E. Lalley in1982, Mother Alverta M. Lalley in 1998, son Vincent K. Farina in 2010 and husband Michael P. Farina in 2024. She is survived by her daughter Michelle (Shelley) Serra of Sewell NJ, grandson David L. Serra (and his wife Kelly Blaszczyk), granddaughter Lindsey M. Serra (and boyfriend Mike Fortino) and her 4 furry grand puppies Archie, Arya, Luna and Pluto.

Arrangements are by the Davis and Hepplewhite Funeral Home, 96 Main Street, Succasunna, NJ (973-584-7264). The Funeral Service will be held at the Gate of Heaven Mausoleum, 225 Ridgedale Ave, East Hanover, NJ 07936 on Monday, February 9, 2026 at 11 am.

Roxbury Township, Mr. James Conlan, Jr., 80, died on January 21, 2026 at his home. He was born in the Military Base of Langley Field, VA and grew up in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. He moved to Succasunna in 1984. He was a retired Computer Programmer for the Roxbury Township Board of Education in Succasunna. He served in the U S Army during the Vietnam Era and later earned his Bachelor’s Degree from NYU STERN University. Jim was a N J Umpire for baseball and Softball. He ran the NYC Marathon 13 times as well as Philadelphia. LBI was his home away from home. He will be missed by anyone who knew him. Forever my “Endless Love”.

He is survived by his wife Mary Ellen (Kalbacher) Conlan. He is also survived by his son Jimmy (and Brittany Reveal) Conlan, and by his sister Mary Anne (and Timothy) Bedell.  He was predeceased by his son Sean B Conlan, and sister Margaret T Conlan.

Arrangements are by the Davis and Hepplewhite Funeral Home, 96 Main Street, Succasunna, NJ (973-584-7264). A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Donations may be made in his name to the Kessler Foundation TBI or to the American Heart Association.

November 7, 1937 – January 20, 2026

José Antoñio Ortiz, a hard working engineer, devoted family man, and selfless volunteer, passed away on January 20, 2026, at the age of 88.

Early Life and Education

Born in San Germán, Puerto Rico, on November 7, 1937, to Antoñio “Toño” Ortiz and Celia M. Ortiz, José moved to Manhattan, New York, at the age of nine. A bright and driven student, he pursued his passion for science and technology, earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautical Engineering from New York University (NYU) and his Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology.

A Life of Service and Career

The year 1962 marked the beginning of a long and dedicated chapter of José’s life. He married his beloved wife, Anna, and together they purchased their first home in Succasunna, New Jersey, where they would remain for over six decades.

José spent 35 years as an engineer at Picatinny Arsenal.  Being a dual language speaker, he volunteered throughout the years at Dover General Hospital, the Knights of Columbus and tutored high school students in Dover, New Jersey.  Following his retirement, his commitment to service continued through his work with the Small Business Administration (SBA)/FEMA. He traveled to disaster-stricken areas, including New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, to help families and businesses navigate the path to recovery.

Family and Legacy

José’s life was defined by his devotion to his family and God. Our Dad’s smile always put everyone at ease and made them feel welcomed.  Church dances brought him joy at Saint Theresa’s Catholic Church. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Anna Ortiz. He was the loving father of:

• David Ortiz of Succasunna, who retired early to provide dedicated, compassionate care for both José and Anna in their later years.
• Nancy Ortiz and her husband, Bill Toole, of Evergreen, Colorado.
• Julie Ortiz and her husband, David Lowrey, of Westminster, Colorado.

He was the cherished grandfather “Grabber” to eight grandchildren: Olivia, Ryan, Devin, and Keegan (children of Nancy and Bill); and José”ph”, Burke, George, and James (children of Julie and David).

Private arrangements are by the Davis and Hepplewhite Funeral Home, 96 Main Street, Succasunna, NJ (973-584-7264),

Sandra E. Jensen, 67, of Bridgewater, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at her home on January 16, 2026.

Sandra, lovingly known as Sandy, was born in Neptune, New Jersey, and grew up in Succasunna. She lived in Flanders before moving to Bridgewater 26 years ago.

She was a 1976 graduate of Roxbury High School, where she sang in the school choir under the direction of Budd Beavers. Sandy went on to graduate from Lebanon Valley College, earning her bachelor’s degree, and later achieved her master’s degree.

Sandy’s life was marked by unwavering optimism and a perpetual smile that could light up any room. Known affectionately as “Ms. J,” she dedicated more than 35 years to educating young minds at Netcong Township Public Schools. She taught general music to students from preschool through eighth grade, served as choir and band director at all levels, and conducted the County Honors Band until her retirement.

She also performed and sang at the Pax Amicus Theater in Budd Lake and was a life member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Succasunna.

Music was the heartbeat of Sandy’s life. For many years, she was the female lead singer and trumpet player in a nine-piece band called High Society. Whether performing on stage, playing piano by a fire pit at a house party, or singing among friends, Sandy brought joy wherever music was shared. When she wasn’t performing, she could often be found teaching her nieces and nephews how to play an instrument.

Sandy had a lifelong love of games—outdoor activities such as relays, tag football, as well as indoor favorites including ping pong, board games, and card games of every kind.

A true lover of the outdoors. she also enjoyed bike riding, kayaking, hiking, swimming at the Jersey Shore, tennis and pickle ball.

She was a devoted animal lover and had many pets throughout her life, including her beloved talking parakeet, Chester; her cat, BB King; and her most recent pets, Jesse, Louie, and Ethan.

Sandy met her loving wife, Jeannette, at a dance she organized in 1997. They were soulmates who spent 29 years together. She was filled with love and pride for her step-daughter Kayla Jean, son-in-law Taylor, and her two cherished grandchildren, Vincent and Ava, who knew her affectionately as “Gigi.”

She was predeceased by her father, Robert Jensen.

Sandy is survived by her adoring mother, Silva; her loving wife, Jeannette; her step-daughter Kayla and her husband Taylor; her grandchildren Vincent and Ava; her aunt Signe; her brother Glenn and his wife Julie; as well as many sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

A memorial will be held at Davis and Hepplewhite Funeral Home, 96 Main Street, Succasunna, NJ(973-584-7264), on January 29, 2026 starting at 9am. Prayer Services with Pastor Kildea to start at 11am to be followed by interment at the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sandy’s memory using the attached link to Memorial Sloan Kettering     giving.mskcc.org

Thank you for your love, support, and prayers during this difficult time.

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