On September 28, 2025, we had the honor of celebrating a truly remarkable milestone—Emily Naumchik’s 100th birthday! Surrounded by family and friends, Emily marked the special occasion right here at Villa Raffaella, where she has been a beloved resident for the past 9 years.
Born and raised in Franklin, NJ, a small zinc mining town in North Jersey, Emily graduated from Franklin High School in 1943 and proudly contributed to the WWII effort, working at General Electric in Schenectady, NY, and Picatinny Arsenal in Dover, NJ.
After the war, she worked as a mother’s helper before marrying her beloved Tony in 1948. The two shared 65 wonderful years of marriage and raised five children. Their family has since grown to include 10 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren—a beautiful legacy of love.
Emily and Tony lived in East Paterson, Bergen County for 13 years before moving to Northfield, NJ in 1961. Emily later began working at Prudential Insurance Company in Linwood in 1966, and both she and Tony retired in 1984.
Their retirement years were filled with adventure and meaning—daily Mass, travel, and family visits. Emily especially loved their trip to Slovakia, where she reconnected with her parents’ homeland and distant relatives. Other highlights included visiting Hawaii to cheer on her daughter in the Ironman Triathlon and many unforgettable trips across the U.S.
A lifelong homemaker at heart, Emily has always found joy in cooking, baking, needlework, crocheting, sewing, reading, and puzzles. She continued swimming into her 80s, picked up bridge later in life (and still plays, including on the computer!), and now enjoys playing Scrabble with friends at the Villa.
Since moving to Villa Raffaella in 2016, Emily has called it one of the best decisions she’s ever made. She’s grateful for her good health, sharp mind, and the loving care of the Sisters and staff who support her daily life.
Please join us in wishing Emily Naumchik a very happy 100th birthday and thanking her for a life that continues to inspire all of us!
