Obituary of Mary Ann V. Lutz

Mary Ann V. Lutz, 79 years young, of Denville, NJ, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, at St. Clare’s Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 27, 1946, in Elizabeth, NJ, to the late Mary Agnes (Dabrowski) and Felix John Rejrat, Mary Ann lived a life filled with devotion, creativity, and boundless love for her family, faith, and community.

Raised in Elizabeth, NJ, Mary Ann graduated from Battin High School in 1963 and went on to earn her BS in Elementary Education from Newark State Teachers College (now Kean University) in Union, NJ. Her passion for teaching shone brightly as she dedicated her career to shaping young minds as a Kindergarten and 1st Grade teacher. She began her teaching journey at Randolph Township Public Schools from 1968 to 1972, paused to raise her family, and later returned to the classroom in 1988 at St. Mary’s Prep School in Denville, NJ. Starting as a substitute, she soon became a beloved permanent teacher, retiring in 2009 after leaving an indelible mark on countless students. Known for her tireless dedication, Mary Ann spent late nights grading hundreds of papers, always ensuring her classroom was a vibrant, welcoming space. She dressed up for every holiday, season, and lesson—her homemade bear costume remains a cherished memory—and took immense pride in teaching children to read, a gift she considered vital to life.

On June 29, 1968, Mary Ann married her best friend and soulmate, George Edward Lutz. Together, they built a life in Randolph before settling into their forever home in Denville, where they raised their three devoted children. A devout Catholic, Mary Ann was an active member of St. Mary’s Church in Denville, where her faith guided her daily life. Her home was a reflection of her vibrant spirit, always adorned for the season or occasion, and a welcoming haven for family and friends.

Mary Ann’s creativity extended beyond the classroom. She was an avid gardener, her backyard filled with whimsical gnomes and frequented by chipmunks, squirrels, and birds she loved to feed. A habitual viewer of Days of Our Lives for over five decades, she also enjoyed reading magazines and newspapers, staying connected to the world. Always impeccably dressed, Mary Ann’s style mirrored the seasons, holidays, or special occasions, complete with thoughtful accessories. Her daily coffee was a cherished ritual, but her family—especially her grandchildren, who could do no wrong—was her true priority and greatest joy.

Mary Ann is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, George Lutz; her loving children, Christopher (Kerry) Lutz of Bellmore, NY, Daniel Lutz of Wilkes-Barre, PA, and Ann Marie (Chad) Rybka of Bernardsville, NJ; her cherished grandchildren, Erin, Thomas, Nicole, Alexandra, and Harrison; her caring sister, Theresa Rejrat of Naples, FL; her dear sister-in-law, Rita (the late Thomas) Waldron; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Although we are saddened by her passing, we take comfort in knowing she in now reunited with her parents and brother, Philip Rejrat, in Heaven.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Mary Ann’s legacy by making the world a better place, as she did every day. Consider a donation to a charity of your choice, performing a kind act for a child or another person in need, or planting a tree to nurture the earth she so loved. These gestures, big or small, reflect Mary Ann’s lifelong commitment to kindness, education, and creating joy for others.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Mary Ann’s remarkable life at a visitation on Monday, August 4, 2025, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, 15 Myers Avenue, Denville, followed by a Mausoleum Service at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 225 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover. Please leave a condolence, light a candle, or share your favorite memory of Mary Ann here to continue celebrating her life and letting her light shine.

Mary Ann’s legacy of love, creativity, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Please continue to say her name and share the memories she has left us with. It means the world to us and we will cherish them forever.

*If you were unable to attend Mass, you can watch it anytime through St. Mary's YouTube page or by clicking here.*