Helen Rafferty, born in Jersey City, New Jersey May 11, 1938, passed away on March 1, 2026. Helen moved with her family to Lincoln Park in 1943, a community that would remain her home for the rest of her life. She graduated from Boonton High School in 1956 and went on to earn her degree from William Paterson Teachers College in 1960. That same year, she married James Rafferty.

Helen began her career as a first‑grade teacher in Lincoln Park, serving from 1960 to 1964. Her dedication to young learners continued even after she left the classroom,  providing home instruction to children who were unable to attend school. In later years she transitioned into a new role as a bookkeeper for Intercoastal Trucking, where she worked until her retirement in 1995. After retiring, Helen and James embraced their love of travel, journeying across the country and visiting countless national and state parks. Helen was an active member of the Lincoln Park senior community and a longtime parishioner of St. Joseph’s Church.

Helen is survived by her children Elaine, Kathleen and Colleen, 5 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. She is pre-deceased by her parents Joseph and Helen, her husband James and her son-in-law Robert Sanders.

Viewing on Friiday,  April 17, 2026 at Keri-Lozito Funeral Home, 125 Main Street, Lincoln Park, NJ from  3-7pm.  Funeral Mass on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at t. Joseph's R.C. Church, 216 Comly Road, Lincoln Park, NJ at 10 AM.

Interment, Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to :Lincoln Park First Aid Squad, 34 Chapel Hill Road, P.O. Box 332, Lincoln Park, NJ 07035-0332 would be appreciated.