Plan for the Future
Moira Roberts passed away on June 3, 2018. She was born in County Mayo, Ireland on February 28, 1941, to Martin and Mary Ann Moran. Moira and her sister Patricia moved to Short Hills, NJ in 1959. Moira graduated from Millburn High school.
Moira graduated from the School of Nursing at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Elizabeth, NJ and received a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Jersey City State, Jersey City, NJ. With her love of learning, she continued her education at Kean University in Union, NJ where she graduated with a master’s degree in nursing. She worked in private duty for many years and as a school nurse in Nutley, NJ at Washington School and Good Shepherd Academy.
Moira married Richard J. Roberts, Ph.D., at St. Rose’s Church in Short Hills, NJ in 1965. Richard passed away in 1989. They lived in Westfield for many years and were blessed with two daughters, Kristina (Dwight Conner) and Alicia (Dan Swift). Her four cherished grandchildren, Cierra and Declan Conner and Dean and Adam Swift lovingly called her “Nana”. Nana made countless memories with her grandchildren, her patience and support were constant.
A close-knit family framed her character and tenacity. Her children were taught the importance of the familial unit, concern for others and to enjoy the precious gift of life. Moira made a difference in people’s lives with her friendly, nurturing manner. She made many longtime friends. She was loved for her generosity, elegance, strength, and grace. Her life was dedicated to learning and helping. She celebrated people without boundaries, judgment or barriers. Moira’s zest for travel, new experiences, art, and classical music enhanced her quality of life. Blessed with resilience in difficult and challenging times, she possessed an immense optimism and boundless energy. Recently, she managed her illness and daily struggles with courage, dignity, gratitude, and humor. She will be deeply missed by her family and many friends.
Special thanks to Helen Myers, Bill Costello, Nina Laico, Barbara Forsythe, Helen Ward, Sue Shelley, Maureen Helbig for their unwavering support and commitment. The staff in hospitals and the aides at her home deserve special halos. She was grateful for the thoughts, prayers, cards, and visits in her final days.