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Born in Dover, Connolly grew up in Mount Olive and attended Rutgers University, where she studied history and graduated with honors in 2003, her obituary says.
Connolly then earned a Master’s degree at Rutgers and had worked as a social studies teacher at Roxbury High School for the past 15 years, her memorial says.
“A marvelous, passionate, and dedicated educator, Nicole touched the lives of thousands of students, parents and colleagues, as a classroom teacher, club and class advisor, and union leader,” reads her obituary. “She was adored by the Roxbury community.”
Connolly was also remembered as a philanthropist and had regularly volunteered with local charities and non-profit organizations.
“Nicole was a person who always selflessly put others before herself,” her obituary says. “She enriched the lives of everyone around her, and made the world a better place, through her smile, warmth, and compassion.”
Connolly was honored in a social media post from Roxbury Public Schools, which described her as one of its “most dedicated and beloved teachers.”
Connolly is survived by her husband James Connolly, mother Joanne Barbato, twin brother Stephen Barbato, sister Laura Barbato, step-mother Natalie Sylvester, as well as numerous extended family members and close friends.
Connolly’s funeral was held Saturday at St. Virgil’s Church in Morris Plains.
“Nicole was kind, generous, passionate, fun, brilliant, and beautiful,” her obituary says.
“Nicole will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew her.”
Click here to view the full obituary of Nicole Barbato Connolly.
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