Selma Conklin

Selma Conklin, a beacon of love and selflessness, passed away on December 4, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on September 3, 1938, in Haifa, Palestine, Selma's journey began at age fourteen when she and her family came to the United States, where she would go on to live a life marked by devotion to her family and community. Upon their arrival, the family settled in Paterson.
Selma was the beloved wife of the late Thomas J. Conklin, Sr., with whom she shared fifty-nine years of marriage filled with mutual respect and unwavering support. She was a nurturing mother to her children, the late Thomas J. Conklin, Jr., Maureen Conklin, and Kevin Conklin. Her role as a mother extended to her daughter-in-law, Jael Conklin, whom she cherished as her own. Selma was predeceased by her brothers Carl, Jack, Fred, Joseph, Alphonse, Alfred, Raymond, and Frank Kuri and sister Berta Passno, leaving behind her brother Jamil Kuri. Her legacy continues through her adored grandchildren, Jade, Hunter, Jenna, and Alex, who will forever hold her memory in their hearts.
Selma's early education was completed before she embraced the role of a homemaker, a title she bore with pride and grace. Her home in Fairfield, where she resided since 1964, was a hub of warmth and hospitality, especially during the holidays when she would host memorable meals for all to enjoy. Her culinary skills and the joy she found in cooking were just one of the many ways she expressed her love for those around her.
A devout parishioner of St. Thomas More RC Church in Fairfield, Selma's faith was a cornerstone of her existence. She was also an active member of the Fairfield Golden Agers senior club, where she formed lasting friendships and contributed to the vitality of the group.
Selma's caring nature knew no bounds; she was a caregiver in the truest sense, always ready to lend a hand or a listening ear to anyone in need, be they young or old. Her selfless acts of kindness were a testament to her loving heart and faith-filled spirit.
Those who knew Selma will remember her for the love she so freely gave and the strength of her character. She was a woman who built a life on the foundation of family, faith, and service to others. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her influence will continue to live on in the lives of those she touched.
Selma Conklin's life was a portrait of love in action, and she will be profoundly missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to have known her. Her journey on earth may have ended, but her story of compassion and dedication will be recounted for generations to come.

A funeral mass will be held on Thursday December 11th at 10:00am at St. Thomas More RC Church, 12 Hollywood Avenue, Fairfield. Please meet at church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to either St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org), 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org), P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516 would be preferred and appreciated. Please visit www.bizubquinlan.com to leave online condolences to the Conklin family.