Florence Hills

Florence J. (nee Castrucci) Hills, a lifelong resident of Ridgefield Park passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 21, 2025 at the age of 104. Born in Union City, NJ. Florence was the beloved daughter of the late Clotilde (nee Pozzo) Castrucci and the late Italo Castrucci. She was the cherished wife of 64 years to the late Harry Hills (2009), a WWII veteran and hero. She was the devoted mother of 3 beautiful girls- the late Barbara Gregory and husband John, Diane Aldelfio and husband Tom, and Mary Beth Brace and husband Richard. Florence leaves behind 6 loving Grandchildren- Kathy Schwartz, Kelly Shumate, Brian Gregory, Danielle Schreiber, Nicole Birnbaum, and Harrison Brace and their spouses. She especially loved her 10 Great Grandchildren- Kaitlyn, Kiera, Megan, Peyton, Noah, Drex, William, Quinn, Riley, and Asher. Florence relied on her faith and was a devoted parishioner of St. Francis Church serving on many committees, study groups, parish initiatives, and of course, bake sales. She was the daughter of a Pastry Chef and quite a baker herself. She was a founding member and spent over 25 years volunteering at Birthright in Maywood, a pregnancy resource center. She was instrumental in helping young pregnant women in crisis. She also was a ferocious reader and volunteered with the Ridgefield Park Friends of the Library, along with volunteering with the Woman’s Club, and served on the Rent Board in town. Florence’s crowning achievement was being chosen as the Grand Marshall of the Ridgefield Park 4th of July parade in 2019. Florence graduated High School early, skipping 2 grades, and finished 2 years of Business School. She worked as an ExecutiveAssistant at Roosevelt Elementary School, guiding the future by supporting the world of education with dedication and care. Florence always carried herself as a lady, impeccably dressed with poise, grace, and an timeless elegance. Above all, her greatest joy was found in the company of her family, valuing every moment spent together, whether in celebration or simple gatherings, fostering deep bonds and treasured memories. Florence will be sadly missed and leaves a legacy of faith, civic service, dignity and unwavering strength.

A Memorial Visitation and Celebration of Life in Florence’s honor will be held on Friday, January 30th beginning at 3:00 pm and concluding at 5:00 pm at Vorhees Ingwersen Funeral home followed by a Funeral Mass on Saturday, January 31st at 11:00 am at St. Francis R.C. Church, Ridgefield Park. In lieu of flowers donations in Florence's honor may be made to St. Francis Church, Friends of the Library (both in Ridgefield Park) or Birthright in Maywood.