Obituary of Geraldine Mary Ripton

Geraldine “Geri” Mary Ripton lived a full and happy life as a teacher, mother, friend, and special person. She had a wonderful sense of humor and intellect that helped her relate to everyone around her. As a young high school graduate, she worked as a draftsperson to save for college with the goal of learning and practicing architecture. She became the first in her family to attend and graduate college. While attending college, she became interested in teaching and decided to pursue studies in education and child development. As part of her education, she taught young Native Americans at a nearby Indian Nation which sparked her lifelong passion to help students with special needs from a wide range of backgrounds. 

Born and raised in Boonton NJ, Geri and her family put down roots in Morris Plains where she lived for over sixty years.  Geri was a stay-at-home mom who was very involved in her sons’ education and activities.  She eventually returned to teaching, taking a position at a special needs school in Whippany where she taught middle and high school students, helped to develop curriculum, and mentored junior teachers. She found this both challenging and rewarding. She made a positive impact on many generations of students during her career. Years after retiring from teaching, she had former students reach out to her to thank her for her support, guidance, and special attention.  Hers was a remarkable and meaningful teaching career.

As a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, Geri touched the lives of all who knew her. Very few days passed when some of the family was not at her house, especially when the pool was open over the summer. She enjoyed vacationing on Long Beach Island, her flower gardens, reading, knitting, shopping, and her traditional Friday pizza nights.

Geri supported her husband, David Gary Ripton, and her sons, Garth and Blaik, in many ways throughout her life. The memories made with Geri will never be forgotten, and times spent together with her will be cherished forever.