Elizabeth “Betty” Schulte

Elizabeth "Betty" Schulte 67 of North Haledon, NJ passed away on April 18th, 2023 in the loving presence of her daughter after an inspiring fight with pancreatic cancer.

Born on August 10th, 1955 to parents Frank Schulte and Paula Ficucell, Betty grew up in Wayne and knew she wanted to be two things in life: a teacher and a mom. She attended Wayne Valley HS Class of '73, and went on to receive her BS in K-12 Math and Science Education from William Paterson University.

Her first life goal was achieved when she was hired as a teacher at PCTI in 1978. Teaching wasn't enough and Betty felt a calling to help students beyond the classroom, leading her to receive her MS in Counseling at William Paterson University. She switched roles and became a guidance counselor and later a crisis counselor, where she touched hundreds if not thousands of students lives. Before her retirement earlier this year, Betty's final position was Supervisor of Admissions where each year she single-handedly gave thousands of students the opportunity for an amazing education. During her 44 years at PCTI she served on many committees, received awards such as Counselor of the year twice, and was recognized by the PCTI Board and Passaic County Freeholders for her efforts in saving a student who had attempted suicide. 

Her second life goal of being a mom became a reality when she adopted her daughter Anastasia (Stacey) in August of 1993. Having received the call for adoption on her 37th birthday, she would forever regard her daughter as the greatest gift she ever received. She spent her life dedicated to her daughter as a single mom, filling in as both mom and dad effortlessly. When asked what her proudest life achievement was, she would always say "my daughter." 

Betty lived her life in the service of others, feeling it was her purpose to help people in any and all ways. As a nearly lifelong resident of Wayne, she served proudly alongside her mother Paula on the Wayne First Aid Squad where she coached, mentored and trained many new EMTs, served as the squads Director, and holds a lifetime membership.

Betty was well known for her kindness, generosity, and her infectiously loud laugh that could be heard through the halls of PCTI and her home. Often regarded as "the kindest person anyone ever knew" she saw the world and people as good, and never had a negative outlook on anything. In addition to being a kind soul, to those who knew her best, Betty was also painfully funny and told the best stories. She was an avid Mah Jong player, loved a good Sudoku book, was always watching soap operas or reality TV, and was her happiest in the presence of others. She was a beloved member of her family and community, and will be sorely missed. 

Betty is predeceased by her parents Frank and Paula Schulte, her sister Patricia "Patty" Garcia, and nephew Will Garcia III. She is survived by her daughter Anastasia, brothers John, Fran, and Bill Schulte and many nieces and nephews. 

Anyone wishing to donate money can donate to the Betty Schulte Scholarship Fund for students at PCTI.

Donations: 

Please make checks payable to PCTVS and note Betty Schulte Scholarship in the memo line