Thomasina "Cookie Stewart" Paczos

Thomasina (Cookie) Paczos, a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away at home on March 12, 2026, at the age of 69.

Born on October 15, 1956, at Margaret Hague Hospital in Jersey City, New Jersey, Cookie spent her childhood and formative years there before making her home in Middletown, New Jersey, with her husband Richard and their loyal dogs Leia and Yoda. Her home was a welcoming place filled with laughter and friendship, where both brief visits and long conversations were cherished. She formed many lasting friendships throughout her life, creating memories with everyone she met.

Known for her compassionate soul and generous heart, Cookie loved animals and brought joy through her infectious laughter. She had a special talent for turning ordinary moments into celebrations. She worked for many years and retired from Flexi-Van Corporation as a manager. In her free time, she enjoyed weekend trips to Atlantic City, entertaining friends at home—especially during the holidays—and pursuing her passions for reading, cooking, and caring for those she loved. A proud high school graduate, her warmth and kindness touched everyone she encountered.

Family meant everything to Cookie. Her loved ones always knew she was only a phone call away, ready to listen, offer support, or give advice. She faced life’s challenges with remarkable resilience, surviving cancer twice and earning the description “walking miracle.” Even in difficult times, she found humor and bounced back with determination. She is survived by her loving husband Richard, her son Fernando (Freddie) Stewart, her sister Bernadette Smith, her brother Michael Smith, her granddaughters Felicia Koehler (Michael) and Katelyn Stewart, her great-grandsons Michael and Jack Koehler, her stepdaughter Jeanette Paczos (Felice Cimino), her faithful dogs Leia and Yoda, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will cherish her memory forever.

She was predeceased by her parents, Loretta and Thomas Stewart, her sister Theresa Mocarski and her husband John, and her nephew Mark Mocarski.