Zinovia Gillies

Zinovia Gillies passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026, at the age of 86 at her home surrounded by her family. Born on March 21, 1940, Zinovia spent her life dedicated to her family and faith and she will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her.

Zinovia will be most remembered for her passion and devotion as a mother and grandmother. She had a nurturing spirit and unwavering dedication and compassion to her family and for those in need. She never met a person she wouldn't talk to and she made a meaningful connection with each interaction. She was a kind, joyful, supportive, generous and thoughtful person who touched so many people's hearts. She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Zinovia worked a few different jobs over her life; first at the National Community Bank in Rutherford, and later as the owner/operator of the Yogurt Carousel in the West Belt Mall, where she was affectionately known as the "ice-cream lady" to all the kids who came to visit her for their daily dose of fun. Later in life, she worked at the Red Cross, always looking for ways to give back to the community.

She was devoted to her church, St. John the Baptist Church in Singac where she spent many years volunteering her time in the choir, candle room, at bible study, Sunday morning coffee hour and making an abundance of pierogies for church events including their annual picnic.

She found joy in simple pleasures, especially in her cherished garden, where she lovingly cared for her blueberry bush and vegetables. Traveling to the shore for "Girlcations" in Wildwood was an anticipated event each summer.

Beloved wife of the late Raymond Gillies. Loving mother of Kim Gillies-Bush & her husband Douglas, Daniel Gillies & his wife Rhanda Moussa, and Nicole Cichanowitz & her husband Gene. Proud grandmother of Mimi, Justin, Grace, Lulu, and Angelina, each of whom she adored. Dear sister of Barbara Pilipie & her husband Anthony and the late Harry Hoynack & his wife Marie. Loving aunt of Stephanie Pilipie, Terry Hopper, Gregg Hoynack, Dennis Hoynack and Arthur Hoynack. Loving cousin of Sandra Cerasuolo, her husband Wallace & son Gregg as well as Charlie Ramesdorfer & his wife Judy, and a cherished friend to all who were lucky enough to have met her.

Visitation Sunday 8/23 from 1-5PM, family eulogies at 4PM, at the Ippolito-Stellato Funeral Home, 7 Two Bridges Rd., Fairfield. Funeral Service at the funeral home Monday 8/24 to begin 9:30AM. Interment Laurel Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Shepherd's Haven in Pompton Lakes, an organization that cares for seniors. They can be mailed to:
Shepherd's Haven Adult Day Care Center, 420 Ramapo Ave, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442.