Kathryn Ciparis

Kathryn M. Ciparis (“Kay”) passed away peacefully on September 6, 2023. She was born on July 16, 1945, to Kenneth and Ruth Blazier (both deceased). She is survived by her husband Edward (“Ed”), daughter Serena, son-in-law Michael Brennan, grandsons Matthew and Logan Brennan, brother Ben Blazier, brother-in-law Paul Ciparis, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Kay grew up on a farm in Port Colden, NJ where she enjoyed riding horses with her dad. She attended Montclair State University, where she was a member of the basketball and gymnastics teams, and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education in 1967. Kay married Ed in 1968 and they moved to a wooded lot in Long Valley, NJ, where they would spend the next 52 years. Kay worked as a physical education teacher, coach, and girls’ athletic director in public and private schools in NJ before focusing her attention on motherhood. She was a devoted mother, fostering a love of nature and adventure in her daughter, that carries through to this day. Kay was a talented photographer and began working part-time in camera stores, followed by framing and art supply stores, and local art galleries. She developed a passion for drawing, painting, and sculpture, returned to school, and earned an Associate’s Degree in Fine Arts from Morris County College in 2001. She spent her time creating art and working as a substitute teacher and home health aide until retiring in 2008. Kay moved with Ed to Salem, Va. in 2020, to be closer to family, but she always considered New Jersey to be her true home.

Kay fulfilled many roles during her life as an athlete, teacher, wife, mother, artist, and grandmother. Her legacy carries on while she is greatly missed by all who love her.

Per the wishes of her family, all services will be private.

Online condolences may be expressed to the Ciparis family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.