Eileen Anne Vatter

Eileen Vatter, a beloved wife, mother, Nana, sister, and friend, passed away November 21, 2025 after a hard-fought battle with a progressive neurological illness. She left this world surrounded by the love she spent her life giving so freely.

Born on June 10, 1961, in the Bronx to Maureen and William F. Maughan, Eileen moved with her family to Pearl River at a young age. She graduated from Saint Anthony's School and then Nanuet High School in 1980 before completing her training as a Licensed Practical Nurse through the BOCES program. After taking time to raise her children, her proudest and most cherished role, she worked for the Pearl River School District and later at ShopRite, where she became a familiar and friendly presence to countless people. She celebrated her well-earned retirement at the end of 2023.

Eileen was a gentle soul with a steadfast heart. She saw the good in everyone, and she loved animals with a tenderness that defined her spirit. Residents of Pearl River could spot her on her daily speedwalks, moving with purpose through the streets of the town she loved. She had a lifelong sense of wonder. She adored zoos, aquariums, and museums, cherished every vacation, and found joy in exploring new places.

What meant the most to Eileen was her family. She married her soulmate, Robert, on October 11, 1986. Their love was steady, loyal, and deep, built over more than 39 years of partnership, laughter, and unwavering care.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her three children and two bonus children: Robert W. and Cai of New York City, Kaitlyn of New York City, and Chris and Meghan of Barnegat, NJ. She was the heart of her home and the steady light for her children. Her love for them was fierce, patient, and constant, and it shaped them into the people they are today.

Last year, Eileen received a joy beyond measure when she became Nana. Her grandchildren, Henry and Emma, were the light that brightened even her hardest days. Though her time with them was far too short, her love for them was immeasurable and pure, and will be carried forward in their lives forever.

Eileen is also survived by her beloved siblings, William F.X. and his wife Jane, Joan and her husband Tom, James, and Nancy and by her stepsiblings, Michael, Elizabeth, Brian, and Jennifer. She is also survived by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Furthermore, she is survived by her chosen family including, but not limited to, Carol and Donna and their families, Nicole, Kathy, members of PRFD, members of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, former coworkers, and her neighbors.

The family is deeply grateful for their village who stepped in with rides, food, dog walking, and countless acts of support as Eileen faced her illness.

Eileen is predeceased by her parents, her stepmother, Mary, and by her loving and supportive in-laws, Bob and Margie Vatter.

The family would like to express a heartfelt thank you to United Hospice for the care they showed Eileen and her loved ones. Eileen was able to remain at home for a long time thanks to the support and loving care of MaryKate, Tricia, and Alison.

For the last almost four weeks of her life, Eileen was a resident of the Joe Raso Hospice Residence, where the entire staff cared for her with deep compassion. The family sends their sincere thanks to each of these angels. They are especially grateful for the love and support of Alison, Kendra, and Kelly, who not only cared for Eileen, but were there to support the family in their most difficult times.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to United Hospice in her memory or to the Cape May County Zoo, one of Eileen's favorite places, to support the construction of their new penguin enclosure. Penguins were Eileen's favorite animal and a source of endless delight.

Eileen's life was defined by love, kindness, resilience, and gentle strength. Her family will carry her with them always, in every step, every memory, and every moment of grace she gave them.