Paula Striffler Black

Paula Striffler Black, age 72, of Tewksbury Twp., NJ passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at home, surrounded by family and close friends.

She was born on December 8, 1951, in Detroit, MI. She spent most of her childhood in Basking Ridge, NJ, and graduated from Ridge High School. She later resided in Washington Twp., NJ, and Perth, Ontario, Canada before moving back to Tewksbury Twp., NJ.

She was the daughter of the late Donald and Christine McCollum Striffler.

Her beloved husband, Derek Black, passed away in 2018 after 38 years of marriage.

Paula graduated from Taylor University in Indiana with her undergraduate degree and from Lehigh University with her master’s degree in education. She spent her entire career in education as a teacher, assistant principal and finally, principal at Old Turnpike and Sawmill Schools until her retirement. She was incredibly devoted to her students and made a lasting impression on generations of children who passed through the Tewksbury school system.

Paula was an avid golfer. She was a member at Architects Golf Club in Phillipsburg, NJ. And when she wasn’t on the golf course, she could be found spending time with her grandson, who she adored.

Survivors include one daughter, Faith Black Ross, and her husband Morgan, and one grandson, Charlie Ross, all of Tewksbury Twp., NJ. Two sisters: Linda Condon of Reston, VA, and Donna MacGorman and her husband David of Howell, NJ. Nieces and nephews: Jordan Schmidt, Mae Carlson, Anna Curtis, Glynis Condon, Zachary MacGorman and Kelly MacGorman-Cantave.

A celebration of life will be held later in the spring.  

To honor Paula’s memory and her exemplary career in education, a scholarship has been established in her name. All contributions should be sent to: Tewksbury Township Board of Education (173 Old Turnpike Road, Attn: Heather Goguen) with "Paula Black Scholarship" in the memo line.

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