Madeline Marie Stiles

She was born and raised in Jersey City NJ. 40 years ago, she moved to Hillside NJ.

Our mother's work ethic was shaped early in her life. One of her first jobs was working for the New Jersey Bell as a switchboard operator in 1960s. At that time, telephone calls were not automatically connected the way they are today. Instead, operators sat at large switchboards filled with cords and blinking lights, manually connecting callers by plugging lines into the correct circuits. It required patience, focus, and quick thinking. For my mother, it was her first experience in a job that demanded responsibility and attention to detail.

Years later, she began the career that would define most of her working life. She worked for more than thirty years at a glass manufacturing plant, eventually becoming a shift supervisor. The environment in the factory was very different from the quiet concentration of the switchboard room. The plant was filled with heat, machinery, and constant activity. As a supervisor, she was responsible for making sure production ran smoothly, managing workers, and solving problems whenever they arose during her shift.

Her job required long hours and a great deal of responsibility. Whether her shift started early in the morning or late at night, she showed up ready to lead. She understood the glass manufacturing process from years of hands-on experience and became someone her coworkers could rely on. Employees respected her because she was fair, hardworking, and willing to step in whenever help was needed.

For our family, her career represented dedication and sacrifice. Even after long shifts at work, she remained committed to taking care of her family and teaching us the value of perseverance. She showed us that success does not always come from easy work, but from consistency, responsibility, and pride in what you do.

Looking back, her journey-from connecting phone calls as a switchboard operator in 1960s to supervising shifts in a busy glass manufacturing plant for more than three decades-tells the story of a woman who adapted, worked hard, and built a life through determination. Her career is something that continues to inspire her children and reminds us of the strength and dedication she carried throughout her life.

Although Madeline never graduated high school, she was able to attain employment to take care of her sisters before raising her own famliy. When our mother finally retired after decades of hard work, it felt as if she was stepping into a chapter of life she had long earned. For so many years, her days had been filled with responsibilities and long hours, but retirement allowed her to slow down and enjoy the simple things that brought her happiness.

One of the places she loved most was her own backyard. Gardening became one of her favorite ways to spend time. She took pride in tending to her flowers and plants, carefully watering them and watching them grow throughout the seasons. There was something peaceful about the way she moved through the garden, enjoying the quiet beauty of what she had planted with her own hands.

Just steps away from the garden was her backyard pool, another place where she found joy. On warm days, she loved to swim or simply relax by the water, basking in the sunshine. It was her way of unwinding, letting the warmth of the sun and the calm of the water wash away the worries of the day. Those afternoons in the yard often became moments of laughter and conversation when family and friends came to visit.

Retirement also gave her more time to do something she truly loved-cooking for her family. The kitchen became the heart of many gatherings. She took great pride in preparing meals, making sure everyone was well fed and welcome at her table. The smell of food cooking and the sound of family talking around the table created memories that will stay with us forever.

She also enjoyed traveling, especially her trips to Mexico. Those trips were something she looked forward to, giving her the chance to relax, see new places, and experience different cultures. They were moments when she could simply enjoy life and take a break from her everyday routine.

Even in retirement, she never stopped giving her time and energy to others. She spent time helping at the local senior citizen center, always willing to lend a hand or brighten someone's day. Caring for people seemed to come naturally to her. She devoted herself to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always ready to watch them, play with them, or offer guidance when they needed it. Many people in the community also felt her kindness, as she often stepped in to help whenever someone needed support.

At home, two very special companions were always close by-her beloved dogs, Elvis and Lucy. They were more than pets; they were part of the family. She adored them, and they followed her everywhere, adding even more warmth and life to her home.

Looking back, what stands out most about our mother is how much love she gave to the people and the life around her. Whether she was tending her garden, swimming in the sunshine, cooking for her family, or caring for children and neighbors, she filled her days with kindness and generosity.

Her life reminds us that happiness can often be found in the simplest moments-in a backyard garden, around a family table, or in the laughter of children and the loyal companionship of a dog. Those are the moments she cherished, and they are the memories we will always carry with us.