Nadine Connors

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Nadine Connors, 73, in Barnegat Township, New Jersey on May 31, 2026. She had a passion for her friends and family.

Nadine was born on May 26, 1953, at Muhlenberg Regional Medical Center in Plainfield, NJ to John Francis Connors and Beatrice May Van Alst. She resided in New Jersey for most of her life but also lived in Pennsylvania for two years and Virginia for six. She graduated from Hunterdon Central Regional High School in 1971. She had three children with her first husband, Ronald Schifano, and was married later to William Wolf and Frank Simpkins. Over the years, she worked as a secretary, a home health aide, a receptionist at healthcare facilities, a medical assistant, and a residential trainer for the Arc of the United States and for the Cerebral Palsy Association.

She was a central hub of her family, often acting as a peacemaker and always willing to forgive. She loved to cook and bake for family occasions. She was a doting mother and grandmother—offering her love, encouragement, and support at just the right time. She loved regaling stories to family and friends and was a wonderful listener as well. To her grandkids, she was Grandmom. She took pride in their achievements and cherished being in their presence. She was a staunch advocate for the developmentally disabled and was a caregiver for her daughter for over 40 years.

Nadine always thought of others before herself, including her family and the less fortunate. Even when she had little money, she always made sure to give what she could for worthy causes. She loved the ocean, whether swimming, bodysurfing, crabbing, or sailing. She enjoyed singing, gardening, and planting flowers. She wrote poetry and was an avid reader with a thirst for knowledge, especially about healthcare and medicine. She was a devoted Christian and active participant and volunteer at her churches, including Night to Shine at Bayside Chapel.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Alan Connors. She is survived by her sister, Susan Gerstemeier; two brothers—Charles Ambrose and Brian Ambrose; two sons—Jason (Karen) Schifano and Keith (Nova) Schifano; her daughter, Brenda Schifano; and four grandchildren—Lillian, Benjamin, Elizabeth, and Nathan.

Celebration of Life ceremonies will be held for Nadine on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Bayside Chapel (965 W Bay Ave, Barnegat, NJ). Visitation is at 2 pm, and the church service is at 4 pm. These will be moments to reflect on Nadine's life and to find comfort in one another. Her family will miss her greatly, yet they will rejoice in knowing that she is at peace and her memory will remain. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Arc of the United States.