For many in Maplewood, the Nanci Buscemi obituary is a reminder of how much a dedicated neighbor can give a town.

The Maplewood Township Committee paused at its October 6 meeting to honor Buscemi, a longtime resident whose contributions extended beyond her profession.

She died October 1 at age 67, surrounded by family and friends at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York City.

Mayor Vic De Luca described her as part of the Maplewood family, reflecting the affection behind the public tribute.

The moment of silence recognized a loss felt in local civic life as well as within her family.

For more than 30 years, Buscemi made Maplewood home while raising her family and serving on the Zoning Board.

In retirement, she brought her appreciation for design and craftsmanship to the Historic Preservation Commission.

Born in Brooklyn, Buscemi earned a high school equivalency diploma before studying civil engineering at the College of Staten Island.

She later completed a master’s degree at Columbia University while working and preparing to welcome her first child.

Her path from determined student to accomplished engineer gave particular weight to her efforts to encourage others.

Across four decades, she worked on bridges, transportation projects and major buildings, later taking on a senior engineering role in New Jersey.

She also wanted young women and people of color to see a future for themselves in STEM fields.

Her family remained central to her life, including her children, Steven and Allison Pearsall, and her grandson, Hudson.

Those searching for a Nanci Buscemi memorial service should know that a gathering and celebration of life were held October 10 in South Orange.

Among Maplewood NJ obituaries, her story speaks to the lasting value of showing up for a community and helping others find their way.

Her absence will be felt by those who knew her as a neighbor, mentor and family member.