Betty Rufalo

Betty Rufalo

Betty Rufalo  (Nee Soltysik) , passed away in her home on Friday December 14, 2018.

Funeral services will be at the Galante Funeral Home 2800 Morris Ave. Union on Thursday  at 8:30 PM.  Cremation private. Visitation Thursday 2-4 & 7-9  PM.

Betty, a lifelong resident of Newark. She was a loving wife, a good, giving mother and a dynamic leader and a woman who was ahead of her time in the field of education. Betty graduated from Kean University and completed a Masters Degree in Education. At the zenith of her career she was appointed director of Curriculum and T&E for the city's public school system. She also a Trustee for the Newark Public Library's Board for more than 20 years .

As a teacher Betty taught the early grades and witnessed all facets and complexities of urban education. It was in the growing Teacher's Union movement in Newark where she would rise to the rank of Vice President of the Union with Carol Grave as President. She was most proud of this activism which led to an incarceration. Her unionism was not in vain for the landmark collective bargaining was won by the newly created Newark Teachers Union which she helped found.

Betty was adored and loved by her husband of 40+ year, Joseph T Rufalo who predeceased her in 2002. She missed him dearly and spoke of him with love and admiration. She leaves behind her 3 children, Jeffrey Rufalo, Renee Silva and Gregory Rufalo as well as her son in law Roberto Silva, daughter in law Laurel Rufalo, grandchildren, Michelle Claro and Christopher Silva and 3 great grandsons

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Newark Public Library