Kathleen M. (Adams) Shoolbraid

Kathleen Mary (Adams) Shoolbraid of Califon, New Jersey passed away peacefully at home with her loving husband by her side in the early morning hours of January 15, 2023 following a brief illness.

Kathy was born on May 4, 1960 to the late Anthony and Lois (Kane) Adams. She graduated from Bridgewater Raritan East High School in 1978. On April 19, 1980, she married Richard Shoolbraid at Immaculate Conception Church in Somerville, New Jersey. In 1988, the couple settled in Califon where they raised a family.

Kathy spent many years welcoming young preschoolers as a teacher’s aide at Happy Face Nursey School. Dogs, stray cats, fish and ordinary houseplants thrived under her care and attention. Kathy enjoyed going to the beach to look for sea glass. She took special delight in the change of seasons. She found great joy in celebrating and decorating for holidays, especially Christmas. Kathy most loved her hometown of Califon.

Kathy was predeceased by her mother, father, her eldest brother, Jimmy Adams, and her beloved labrador, Josey.

Kathy is survived by her husband of 42 years, Richard Shoolbraid and three children: Sean (Danielle) Shoolbraid of Berkeley Heights, New Jersey; Casey (Ling En) Shoolbraid of Whitehouse Station, New Jersey; and Kari (Dr. Jacob Palmer) Shoolbraid of Oxford, England. She also leaves behind six grandchildren: William, Eli, Leah, Owen, Gabrielle and Lilette.

Kathy is also survived by five siblings: Donna (Mark) Persinko; Timothy (Lynn) Adams; Mark Adams; Brian (Moriah) Adams; Keith Adams (Debra) and her aunt Eileen Babin. She will also be missed by many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, in-laws and cousins.

Calling hours will take place on Friday, January 20, 2023 from 1pm-3pm with a memorial service at 3pm at Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home, 66 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment will be private.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local animal shelter in Kathy and Josey’s name.

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