Obituary of Josephine Mary Vereb
Josephine Mary Vereb, a devoted wife, mother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on March 10, 2025, at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Somerville, New Jersey. She was 83 years old.
Born on May 31, 1941, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Josephine was the daughter of John and Salvatrice Scrofani. She spent her early years in Elizabeth, where she was raised and educated before moving to Warren in 1972. Her daughter fondly recalls Josephine’s desire for more space and a quieter, more rural setting—motivations that led to the family’s move from the city to Warren.
In 1968, Josephine married the love of her life, Eugene Vereb, with whom she shared 54 years of marriage until his passing in 2022. Their love and partnership were the foundation of a beautiful life together.
Josephine pursued higher education at Saint Elizabeth University in Convent Station, where she studied chemistry. She began her professional career at Schering-Plough, where she worked as a chemist for several years. However, after the birth of her daughter Jean, Josephine made the heartfelt decision to step away from her career to dedicate herself to raising her child. As Jean grew older, Josephine returned to work, serving as a substitute teacher at Midland School in North Branch, where she touched the lives of many students before her retirement.
A devout woman of faith, Josephine was a former member of Blessed Sacrament Roman Catholic Church in Martinsville. She was also known for her deep admiration for Gregory Peck, whom she considered one of the finest actors of all time, and she took great joy in watching his films. Josephine also found comfort in music, occasionally listening to Andrea Bocelli, though nothing was more important to her than the time she spent with her family and beloved daughter Jean.
Josephine was predeceased by her husband, Eugene, as well as her three sisters, Millie, Jennie, and Mary. She is survived by her loving daughter, Jean, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Tuesday, March 18, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ. A funeral service will take place the following morning, at 10:30 am Wednesday, March 19, at Higgins Home for Funerals, followed by interment at Hazelwood Cemetery in Clark, where Josephine will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband Eugene.
Josephine’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
