Vilma Irene Rizza

Vilma Irene Rizza (nee Pacheco) passed away on March 1, 2026, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. Vilma was born and raised in New York City before moving to Westwood then Emerson, NJ. She is predeceased by her former husband Pasquale Rizza, her father, Andres Pacheco; her mother Maria (nee Bernal); her sisters, Yolanda Grande, Alice Foubert-Bruce and her brothers, Elias Foubert, and Charles Foubert.

Vilma was a graduate of Mother Cabrini High School in New York City. She attended Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck and City College in Manhattan where she studied Spanish, and ultimately received her PhD. She taught Spanish at Teaneck High School for over two decades. She was an avid skier, accomplished pianist, and voracious reader. She lived a life defined by family, faith, and service to her community.

Vilma is survived by her sons Peter, wife Ivette; Patrick wife Kathy, Michael, Joseph, wife Tracey and daughter Rosemarie, husband Peter. She is also survived by her nine grandchildren Kyle, Timothy, wife Kelli, Brendan, wife Bridget, Gillian, husband Evan, Cassidy, husband David, Christopher, wife Lisa, Taylor, husband James, Briana, husband Daniel and Thomas. She is also survived by five great grandchildren Jackson, Maddox, Kayce, Noah and Anthony and countless nieces, nephews and extended family whom she loved dearly.

As Vilma was a generous philanthropist, memorial contributions can be made to the organization of your choosing.