Judith Gale (Gordan) Selest

Judith G. (Gordan) Selest passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, in Montclair, NJ, at the age of 80. Born on April 15, 1945, in Passaic, NJ, Judy was a woman whose life was marked by her deep love for her family.

Judy was raised in Bloomfield, NJ and was a proud graduate of Bloomfield High School. She furthered her education at Upsala College in East Orange, where she met her husband of 58 remarkable years, Neil H. Selest.

Before retiring, Judy dedicated her career to helping others as the Welfare Intake Supervisor with the Passaic County Board of Social Services. Her selfless nature was evident in her work, where she provided support and compassion to those in need. Judy's commitment to her community extended beyond her professional life. She was a parishioner of St. Andrew the Apostle R.C. Church in Clifton and, alongside her husband, was an active member of the Porsche Club of America - Northern NJ Region.

Judy's passion for life was matched by her love for animals, particularly dogs. Throughout her life, she rescued 19 dogs, providing them with a loving home, and supporting incredible causes, like the Friends of Wayne Animal Shelter. Her kindness knew no bounds, and her legacy of generosity will live on through the countless lives she touched.

An avid cook and fan of the Food Network, Judy found joy in preparing meals for her family and friends. Her kitchen was a place of warmth and laughter, where memories were made and shared. She was a passionate New Jersey Devils fan, watching and attending games at the Prudential Center whenever possible. Judy's zest for life extended to her social circle; she cherished her outings with girlfriends, always ready for a new adventure or a heartfelt conversation over lunch.

Above all, Judy was a devoted wife, mother, mommom, cousin, and friend. Her presence at her grandsons' hockey and soccer games was a constant, her spirited cheers echoing from the stands. Judy's love for her family was her guiding force, and nothing brought her more happiness than being surrounded by her loved ones.

Judy's legacy lives on through her daughter, grandchildren, and a circle of special friends who were touched by her grace and compassion. Judy leaves behind one child: Laura Selest-Rizzuto and her partner Peter Kiely; and 2 grandchildren, Nicholas Rizzuto and his wife Alyssa Rizzuto and Jason Rizzuto and his partner Quinn Wichert.

Visitation will be held Thursday, March 12, 2026 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. A funeral service will immediately follow at 4:00 pm. Cremation will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to FOWA (Friends of Wayne Animal Shelter), P.O. Box 3701, Wayne, NJ 07470 (www.fowarescue.org).

Please visit www.bizubquinlan.com to leave condolences to the family on the Tribute Wall section of the obituary.