Obituary of Regina Maria Plocki

Regina Maria Plocki, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, in the comfort of her home surrounded by her adoring family. She shared 86 years of unconditional love and unwavering devotion, with everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Born and raised in Piauí, Brazil, to the late Felicidade (Fonseca) and Ivan Martins, Regina was one of five children who blessed their household. Her journey of faith led her to meet her soulmate in Rio de Janeiro. Martin and Regina married on April 9, 1968, first settling in the Bronx, New York, where they became proud parents, and later moved to Irvington, New Jersey, where their family grew even larger. Since 1983, Regina made her home in the Indian Lake section of Denville, New Jersey, and her spiritual home at St Mary's Parish.

Regina thrived as a mother, embodying a nurturing spirit that was born within her. She was a natural caregiver to all, whether two-legged or four, her happiness rooted in giving. A devout Catholic, her faith was the cornerstone of her life. She attended church daily to light a candle and say a prayer. She adored Saint Rita of Cascia deeply, carrying prayer cards of her everywhere—on her person and in her car—always ready to share her faith and passion with others.

Her nightly prayer hours for loved ones exemplified her deep faith and caring heart; her prayer room was filled with handwritten notes with names she was asked to pray for, ensuring none were missed.

It's impossible to fully describe her; she was a rare and extraordinary woman whose life was a testament to love, faith, and kindness.

She leaves loving memories to her husband, Martin Plocki; her daughters, Kathy (Patrick) Walsh, Karen (Sheridan) Shelley, and Kim (Danny) Betz; her grandchildren, Jacob and Gavin Walsh and Stephanie and Levi Kuruc; her siblings, Maria Socorro Fraga and Ivonne Martins; her best friend whom she loved like a sister, Lynne Pi-Suyner; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends near and far. She was a truly sister to all.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, August 29th at 10 am at St. Mary’s Church, 15 Myers Avenue, Denville, NJ. Burial will follow at St. Cecilia Cemetery, 160 Academy Street, Rockaway, NJ. All are welcome to come and celebrate this incredible woman. In lieu of flowers, donations are being accepted to the National Shrine of Saint Rita, 1166 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146 or at www.saintritashrine.org. If you would prefer, Regina would appreciate it if you could say a prayer to Saint Rita in her memory or for someone in need.

The family invites you to leave a condolence, share a favorite memory, or light a virtual candle in celebration of Regina's remarkable life. Though she will be deeply missed, her strength, unwavering faith, and boundless love will remain in the hearts of all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in every life she touched. May she rest in eternal peace.

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