Joyce S. Koziel

Joyce S. Koziel, née Serafin, a cherished member of her community and a devoted matriarch, passed away peacefully at her home in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, on April 12, 2026, just shy of her 99th birthday. Born on April 25, 1927, in Garfield, New Jersey, Joyce lived a full and active life marked by dedication to her family, a strong work ethic, and deep cultural pride.

From a young age, Joyce embraced the value of hard work, beginning her career at just 14 years old. Her professional journey took her through several notable positions, starting in a wallet factory and continuing at Becton Dickinson Composite Alloys Company and Dumont in Clifton. She also made significant contributions during her long tenure at Nabisco in Fair Lawn and later in her career at Nordstrom and Lord & Taylor in Paramus. Her commitment to her work was matched only by her love of staying busy and engaged in life.

Joyce was profoundly connected to her Polish heritage, a bond she expressed through her love of traditional foods and customs. She delighted in dancing the polka and taking joy in homemade delights such as stuffed cabbage, kielbasa, rye bread, babka (mb crumb cake), pierogies, and especially homemade raviolis from Dino's and Butch. Her warm invitations to share these meals created many fond memories for those who knew her.

She was a woman of practical wisdom and endearing habits; those who loved her will remember her familiar calls for “coffee,” “soda,” and gentle reminders to “take the butter out early so it’s softer” or “don’t buy bananas that are too ripe, make sure they’re a little green.” Joyce held a nostalgic affection for local haunts and old-school traditions, often urging visits to President Street, Adam’s, Kohouts, and the Ravioli Co.—places that reflected a cherished way of life.

Joyce’s personality shone through her love for family, her enjoyment of the shore, Atlantic City excursions, shopping, and finding bargains. Those close to her admired her vitality and her steadfast values—she was proud to have “never drank, never smoked, and nine times a bridesmaid!” Her vibrant spirit and grounded nature embodied an era and an ethic that will be remembered fondly.

She is survived by her devoted son, Kenneth Koziel, and treasured grandchildren Jaclyn Koziel and William Koziel. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Edward Koziel, her late daughter-in-law Maryanne Koziel, sisters Veronica, Rose, and Florence, and brother Walter.

Visitation will be held on April 17, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Galante Funeral Home-Caldwell Location, 54 Roseland Ave., Caldwell, NJ 07006. A Mass celebrating her life will follow at St Stanislaus Kostka Roman Catholic Church, 184 Ray St, Garfield, NJ 07026, beginning at 11:00 a.m. and concluding at noon.

Joyce S. Koziel leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength, heartfelt tradition, and enduring love. She will be remembered with profound respect and affection by all who were fortunate to know her.