SIMONDS — Chester Simonds, 80. From the days of his youth, Chester was most at home by the water, either out on a boat or on the banks, rod in hand.
He’d pass his passion onto his son and grandsons. If they saw a body of water, they’d have to know what was in it.
He took his family on many vacations but also shared special trips with his wife to the Caribbean and Mexico. His favorite times may have been when he gathered his family under one roof in the Outer Banks.
His grandson Ryan named him Mr. Fix It. If it was broken, he knew who to call. His talents probably also came from tinkering with cars in his teen years. Chester could keep them going. He never owned a new car and, though they might not have looked great, they ran perfectly.
He loved to snorkel, even if it was only in his own pool. He liked watching sports including all the Philadelphia teams, and he spent many years on a soccer field watching his son and grandsons play. His earlier years found him playing an accordion and joining the Harrogate String Band, ultimately marching in the Philadelphia New Year’s Day Parade.
He worked as a pipefitter for Allied Chemical which later became Sunoco. He was born and raised in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia and raised his family in Bensalem. He retired to Woolwich Township to be close to family.
He lived around the corner from a girl named Anne, they’d shared a 55-year marriage blessed by two children, Greg (Cyndee) and Courtney, and later by four grandchildren: Garrett (Kaitlyn Tracey) Paoletti, Joshua Paolett, Ryan Simonds and Liam Simonds. He is the brother of Patricia Drozdowski, Felix, Thomas, Ronald (Patricia) and the late Richard Simonds
Donations to Michael J Fox Foundation (give.michaeljfox.org) will be appreciated.
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BOTTO – Catherine Botto, 87. Catherine was the Botto matriarch; proud of her family and proud of the businesses that bore their name. Most nights found her holding court at her regular table, next to the fireplace, beneath the pictures of Bob, enjoying her evening glass of wine.
The day would have begun many, many hours earlier, Catherine arriving at the market to cook and oversee the operation. She led by example working as hard as anyone in the organization.
The staff were more than just employees; they were family. They knew her love, but she wasn’t shy about making sure they met her standards.
Money was never the motivator. Catherine lived in service to her community. Many knew her generosity during difficult times, and she spoke enough Spanish to help the migrant communities navigate the store.
As a mom and a grandmom, you didn’t have to guess what she was thinking; tough love raised a strong family.
She was strong in her faith; an active member of St. Clare of Assisi Parish, active for many years in Altar and Rosary, Legion of Mary and attended daily Mass for many years.
She never really retired, but she was able to see the world in her later years: Italy, Las Vegas, Puerto Rico, Alaska. The last few years found her residing at Mullica Gardens. Catherine remained social as ever, hosting family and friends on a regular basis.
She emigrated from Italy at age 16 with her father and younger brother, settling in South Philadelphia and going to night school to learn to speak English. A handsome boy named Bob heard a rumor from his cousin about a pretty girl on 10th Street. The two would marry and move to Swedesboro in 1964, operate the first Bottos Market (today home of Pat’s Pizzeria), purchase their sausage company in 1965 and Kings Colonial Market in 1973. 1998 saw the major expansion and the opening of Bottos Italian Line Restaurant and catering facility.
She was the wife of the late Robert (Big Bob); mother of Vincent Sr. (Darleen), Robert Jr. (Karen), Domenic Sr. (Diana), and Enrico Sr. (Lisa); grandmother of Robert (Taylor), Vincent Jr. (Sonya), Talia Taylor (Jack), Sophia Rosa, Natalie Calista, Robert III, Jeffrey, Enrico Jr., Domenic Philip, Sienna Grace, Savannah Catherine, and Geneva Rose; great-grandmother of Aspen Robert and Georgia; and the sister of Teresa Gulli and John (Cathy) Aversa.
Donations to St. Clare of Assisi Parish, 140 Broad Street, Swedesboro will be appreciated.
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GARDNER — Thomas William Gardner, age 74, of Mount Royal, went home to be with the Lord on March 1, surrounded by the endless love of his family.
He was the firstborn son of the late Charles and Joan Travers Gardner. They moved to Delran, NJ when he was 12 years old. Tommy was the devoted husband to Elena, proud father to Zachary and Joshua, supportive brother-in-law to Krista, who he thought of as a daughter, and best friend to many.
With broken hearts and eternal gratitude, we honor the beautiful life of a remarkable man that was the force at the center of our world.
To his wife, Teg was a true partner in every sense of the word. He believed in her, stood beside her, and built a life grounded in loyalty, laughter, and shared dreams. Their marriage of 35 years was not just a story of unwavering love. Their bond and friendship deepened with every year.
To his sons, Pop was the best dad anyone could have hoped for. He showed up for games, school events, late night talks at the kitchen table, and every moment in between. He taught by example that family always comes first, love is shown through actions, and to forgive quickly. He was the voice reminding them to push harder and never quit.
To his sister-in-law, Tommy was the hero, a role that came naturally to him. He took care of her selflessly, not for recognition, but for her health, happiness, and security. He loved her unconditionally without hesitation. He was the calm, safe place she called home.
From a young age strength and determination defined him. In Riverside High School, he was chosen as captain of the wrestling team and left his mark on the football field. He was never just strong in body, but strong in character too. He led with his smarts, grit, and confidence.
Friends were drawn to Beav’s larger than life personality. They dressed up for dances, raced cars on Taylors Lane, and rode everything from horses to Harleys.
After graduating, he served his country honorably in the Army with courage and discipline. They awarded him the National Defense Service Medal and Sharpshooter M16 Badge. Protecting the people he loved was of utmost importance to him.
As a union Boilermaker, hard work was not something he talked about. It was something he did every single day to provide for his family. He was the fixer of broken things that earned respect by living it.
Breezy had a way of turning ordinary moments into the funniest jokes and stories. He was awarded the 50-year service pin for his commitment and talent. He felt honored that his sons followed in his footprints.
That warrior spirit was what carried him through his battle with cancer. Beyond the toughness was a generous man full of heart. He had a soft spot for the dogs, Julia and Bruce, who were his constant companions. He enjoyed watching with his boys, singing to his girls, being at the seashore, drawing like his mom, and making every celebration special.
The Gardner 5 was his greatest joy. Nothing made him happier than to hear laughing echo through the house, watching his children grow, holding his wife’s hand, and knowing his family was together.
Tommy’s legacy is the extraordinary love he poured into his adoring family that will last forever. He lived his life with integrity, perseverance, and resilience. Those lessons and many more remain our guiding light in the darkest of times. We will always hold his cherished memory in our hearts and the impact of his life will never fade.
XO XO ” I love you, goodnight, I’ll see you in the morning ” XO XO
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HOFFMAN — Bruce E. Hoffman Jr. age 56 years of Maple Shade, formerly of Carneys Point passed away on April 17 in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Camden.
Bruce was born in Woodbury, raised in Paulsboro and Clarksboro, and was a graduate of Kingsway High School. He was operations manager for Kenco Logistics in Quakertown, PA where he worked for the last 10 years.
Bruce was a member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Clarksboro where he helped with the youth group for several years. He loved music and dancing, hiking and traveling to new places and trying new foods.
He is survived by his daughter, Danielle Hoffman and her partner Heather D. of Clementon; his wife of 30 years, Dawn Hoffman (nee Rappa) of Georgetown, Delaware; his partner of two years, Carlene Anderson-Englisch of Maple Shade; his parents, Bruce and Linda Hoffman of Clayton, NJ; his sister, Leighann and Ron Harner of Elverson, PA; his brothers, Sam and Gina Hoffman of Pitman, NJ, Phil and Mandy Hoffman of Bridgeton, several nieces and nephews, fur babies and lifelong friends.
The Funeral Service was held at the McBride-Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro.
Contributions can be made in his memory to Salem County Humane Society, 214 Game Creek Rd, Penns Grove, NJ 08069. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.
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SNYDER — Charles A. Snyder, III (“Chip”), age 71, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, April 29, surrounded by his family.
Born in Woodbury, NJ, he was the beloved son of the late Charles A. Snyder, Jr. and Mary Snyder (née Reynolds). Chip graduated from Woodbury High School and Lincoln Technical Institute. He retired from a career as an electrician, previously working for Jack Plale Electrical Contractors, followed by Bowe and Gant Electrical Contractors.
Chip was a member of Hardingville Bible Church where he was actively involved in the ministry of the church, ready to lend a helping hand wherever it was needed. He was also a dedicated member and volunteer of the East Greenwich Township Fire and Rescue, completing 50 years of service to the community in March 2026. Chip was also the fire company’s chaplain for many years.
Fishing, woodworking, and camping were some of Chip’s pastimes, but the thing that he loved most was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Chip is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Susan E. Snyder (née Douglass); his children, Charles A. Snyder, IV and his wife Lindsey, and Caleb D. Snyder and his wife Rebecca; and his cherished grandchildren, Macie, Clarke, and Gideon Snyder. He is also survived by his sister, Susan S. Smith, and her husband Larry.
Donations may be made to the Memorial Fund of Hardingville Bible Church, 979 Whig Lane, Monroeville, NJ 08343.
Online condolences can be made at https://www.smithfhmantua.com/.
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SHUTE — Harry Shute IV, 74. Harry lived life to the fullest. If he heard songs from the 70’s and 80’s, Harry “Crazy Legs” Shute would beat everyone to the dance floor.
He loved his Land Shark beer (had been a Coors guy back in the day) especially if he was down relaxing on his deck at the Pine Haven Campground. Everyone called him Big H. Of course, he was never more at home than when he was out on his boat and later years on his jet ski.
He had a love of cars and trucks. For cars it was anything fast, especially his ‘69 Chevelle. For trucks it had to be a Dodge Ram.
Earlier years found him working as an environmental technician, but he found his real calling as a dad and granddad. The grands never had to ask twice for the answer to be yes, especially if it had anything to do with ice cream or a golf cart ride. Harry was always game for a vanilla and chocolate twist at Dippy’s.
He knew you can’t win if you don’t play and loved trying his luck with the lottery and spent many a Sunday yelling at the Eagles. If his T.V. was on he’d be watching some game shows: Price is Right and Let’s Make a Deal.
He was raised in Swedesboro on Weatherby Ave, was a Kingsway Graduate and lived in Oak Valley.
Harry and Mary Alice were married for 53 years and were blessed by three children: Harry V, Richard and Mari Jo; and later by grandchildren, Jordan, Jada, Andrew, Alex, Isaac, Ryan, Steven and Jaxon. He is survived by his mother, Rose; and his sisters, Connie, Rose Ann and Kelly. He was pre-deceased by his father, Harry Shute III and brothers, Steve and Gary.
His life celebration was held at Daley Life Celebration Studio, Swedesboro.
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CHAMBERS — Joseph N. Chambers, age 71 years of Clarksboro passed away on May 2 in his home. He was born in West Jersey Hospital, Camden and raised in Clarksboro.
Joe was a Kingsway Regional High School graduate and later lived in Paulsboro for a few years before returning to Clarksboro. He worked as a truck driver for many years and recently worked as a school bus driver for B.R. Williams in Swedesboro. He liked doing handyman jobs around his home.
He is survived by his sister, Brenda Chambers of Clarksboro. Joe was predeceased by his parents, Raymond and Gladys Chambers and his sister, Linda Magazu.
The Funeral service was held at the McBride-Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.
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HACKETT — Edith Marie Hackett (nee Watson) age 91 years of Harrisonville, passed away on May 10 in Pitman Manor. She was born in Cold Spring, NJ and raised in West Deptford.
Mrs. Hackett was a homemaker and belonged to St. John’s Methodist Church in Harrisonville, The Ladies Auxiliary of Harrisonville Fire Company as well as Harrisonville Ruritan Club. She enjoyed gardening, baking, playing games and spoiling her grandchildren.
She is survived by her children, Kevin and Yvonne Owen of Pittsgrove, Rick and Karen Owen of Pedricktown, Donna and Lance Peters of Mantua; her grandchildren, Nicole (Jeremy), Ashley, Johnny (Ella), Kaitlyn (Blayn), Kyle (Erin) and Murray; her great grandchildren, Treyshonn, Jaiden, Lilianna, Abigail, Novalee, Lanisa, Luna and Annalise. Mrs. Hackett was predeceased by her husbands, Herb Owen Jr. and Raymond Hackett and her great grandson, Travis Schell.
A Memorial Service was held at the McBride-Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Contributions can be made in her memory to the General Fund of St. John’s Methodist Church, PO Box 2 Mullica Hill, NJ 08062. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.
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