Jean Mary Surace

Jean Surace, dedicated aunt and educator, passed away on February 20, 2025. Born on April 6, 1964, in White Plains, NY, she made her home in Hawthorne, a town she loved and cherished.

Predeceased by her father, Rudolph Surace, and her brother, Michael, Jean leaves behind a family who adored her: her beloved mother, Marie; her brothers Tom (Sandra), Stephen (Terri), and Robert (Dorene). She is survived by many nieces and nephews who idolized her: David (Dina), Christopher (Irene), Stephen, Tara (Joe), Robert Jr., and Gianna. She has been blessed with great-nieces and nephews: Stella, Dylan, Rocco, Sadie, and Ryder, who will carry forward her legacy of love and kindness.

For 25 years, Jean helped shape young minds as a devoted teaching assistant at the Hawthorne Cedar Knolls School, and for four decades, she guided countless hearts in faith as a religious education instructor at Holy Rosary Church. Her life was a testament to the power of education, faith, and love. Jean was an accomplished master in Tae Kwon Do, achieving the highest certification. She embodied both grace and resilience. Her dedication, perseverance, and discipline led her to Korea, where she was certified as a master belt.

Yet above all, her greatest joy was found in the time spent with her family; she was dedicated and selfless. Her nieces and nephews were the light of her life, and she, in turn, was their guiding light. Jean's legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched and the unconditional love she so freely gave.