Obituary of Rae B. Svecz

Rae B. Svecz passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 20, 2021. Rae was an active and well-known citizen of the Salem County community for over 60 years. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 16 years, Andrew John Svecz, III, her two brothers Francis and Anthony and her four sisters Mary, Blanche, Stella and Alice. Rae is survived by her five children, Stephen (Rhonda), Andrea (Morty), Michael (Patricia), Christopher (Terrisa) and Susan (Michael). She is also survived by her 8 cherished grandchildren Capt. Andrew John Svecz, IV (Crystal), Michael, Alexander, Cassandra, Dean, Emily, Colin, Carly and one great granddaughter Brianna. Rae also leaves her cousin and lifetime friend Ceil Seprosky along with countless other relatives and friends that she cherished over her lifetime. Rae grew up in Forest City, PA, graduated from Forest City High School in 1951, and then received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Bloomsburg State Teachers College. She married the love of her life, Andrew John Svecz, III on July 14, 1956 and they started their family in Pennsville, NJ. As her immediate and extended family dispersed to pursue their own lives, Rae was dedicated to keeping them connected. By hosting family gatherings, calling her loved ones for a check-in, and reminding those loved ones to occasionally check in with one another, she instilled a sense of closeness in her large family. Rae graciously opened her home to 44 student boarders from the Salem Community College glassblowing program over many years, all of whom became lifelong friends. Rae was a dedicated teacher, starting her career in the Pennsville School District in 1955. She took time off to raise her family and resumed her career in the Penns Grove School District, where she spent 26 years teaching grades 1-8 and leading the Gifted and Talented Program. Rae's passion for teaching transcended well beyond the classroom, as she dedicated countless hours of her time in mentoring roles, such as tutoring students, leading the Penns Grove Odyssey of the Mind program, and participating as an adult literacy volunteer. Her gift for teaching did not go unrecognized, as she was awarded outstanding teacher of her school district through the Governor's Teacher Recognition Program in 1987. Rae was an avid reader, M*A*S*H fan, card club player, video poker player, and lover of the Arts. She played the piano for many years and was a member of the Queen of Apostles Choir and the Salem Oak Singers. Rae contributed immeasurably to her community as a founding member of the Salem County Arts Alliance, Teen Arts Festival, and The Stompin' Grannies. Furthermore, Rae was a devoted member of the Pennsville Recreation Committee, Cub Scout Leader, numerous school PTA's and school committees and the Queen of Apostles Church. Her involvement in the Church included the Altar and Rosary Society, the Small Christian Community, Parish Council, Lector, Cantor, Eucharistic Minister, CCD teacher, and a soprano in the choir. Rae lived a long and beautiful life, leaving a lasting impact on her family, friends, and the countless students she guided over the years. A small private Mass will be held for immediate family. Everyone that knew Rae, knew that she loved parties with her family and friends so a celebration of life will be planned at a later date when it is safe to do so. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Rae's memory to a charity of your choice. www.laughreyfuneralhome.com