Mildred E. Stanley

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mildred E. Stanley, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, who departed this life on September 7, 2026, at the age of 97. Mildred was born on February 20, 1929, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to Edward Wilds and Easter Williams-Wilds. Mildred's life was a testament to resilience, ambition, and love. She married the love of her life, Carl James Stanley, in October 1950 in their hometown of Jersey City. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and many adventures. Education was a cornerstone of Mildred's life. Despite the challenges of her time, she earned her G.E.D. in 1961, followed by a Real Estate License in 1962. Her determination led her to Rutgers University, where she achieved an Associate Degree in Business Administration in 1970. Her career was equally impressive, with 18 years at New York Bell Telephone Company and a successful tenure as a top sales agent at Mattie H. Jackson Real Estate Company. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as she owned and operated Acme Cleaners for 35 years, earning the title of Minority Business Woman of New Jersey. Mildred's professional journey later took her to Hudson City Bank, where she continued to contribute until her retirement. Mildred's vibrant personality extended beyond her career. She was an active member of Zion Baptist Church in Jersey City and a dedicated participant in various community organizations, including the Board of the New Jersey Repertory Theatre and the Dry Cleaner Association of Jersey City. Travel was a passion that Mildred pursued with zeal. Her adventurous spirit led her to explore the wonders of Egypt, Greece, Morocco, Mexico, the Caribbean Islands, Hawaii, and California, capturing the beauty of these places through her beloved photography. Mildred was preceded in death by her devoted parents and her siblings, Robert Cornelius Wilds and Agnes Helen Wilds. She leaves behind her daughter Colleen D. Stanley-Turrell and son-in-law Donald C. Turrell, her grandchildren Vaughn Stephen Marshall Jr., Siobhan Amanda Kirkland, and Takara Reaves, and her great-grandchildren, Vaughn Stephen Marshall III, Ariana Nicole Marshall, and Bryce Julian Marshall, along with great-great-grandchildren Ezra and Leilani. She is also survived by her lifelong friend Hattie Mae Stancil, sister-in-law Sandra Claiborn, and cousins Pat and Maxine Stanford, and Sherylynn Brown. A neice Sharon Mann, and extended loved one Diana Davis of Strousburg, PA. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Mildred's memory. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who offered comfort through calls, cards, and prayers. Special thanks are given to James H. Coles and Cotton-Parker Funeral Homes for their compassionate services. A Life Memorial Gathering is being planned, and details will be shared with those who wish to celebrate Mildred's remarkable life. Mildred will be remembered for her boundless love, her enduring strength, and the legacy of kindness she leaves behind. She touched the hearts of all who knew her and will be deeply missed.