Mary Jane Sauer passed away peacefully March 25, 2026, surrounded by her loving daughters.
Born April 25, 1941, in Jersey City, Mary Jane was the daughter of Mary Jane and Richard Brennan. She spent her early years in Jersey City before moving to Keansburg. She was a proud graduate of Red Bank Catholic High School, Class of 1959, and remained a lifelong Casey.
In 1963, she married Douglas Sauer, and together they made their home in Fair Haven, where they raised their two daughters. In 1989, the family moved to Lincroft. Mary Jane returned to Fair Haven in 2014, a place she always considered home.
Mary Jane began her career as a medical professional, working for many years assisting in doctors’ offices. Later in her career, she transitioned to administration in an asset management firm, often saying it was the best job she ever had. She brought dedication, warmth and a strong work ethic to everything she did.
Mary Jane was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Her life was defined by her love of family, her quiet strength, and the deep connections she made with those around her. She had a way of making everyone feel loved, and she never ended a visit without saying, “I love you more.”
She was predeceased by her husband, Douglas Sauer, and her parents, Richard and Mary Jane Brennan. She is survived by her daughters, Laurette Vilardi (Ronald Jr.) and Sandra Papa (Joseph); her cherished grandchildren, Ronald (Shea) Vilardi III, Timothy (Julia) Vilardi, Daniel Vilardi (fiancée Darianne Mastricola), Mary Vilardi, Isabelle Papa and Angelo Papa; her great-grandchildren Ava and James Vilardi; and her sister, Susan (Kevin) McDermott. She is also survived by a large extended family that she loved fiercely.
Visitation was held March 30 at Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated March 31 at the Church of the Nativity, Fair Haven. Burial followed at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Middletown.
The article originally appeared in the April 2 – 8, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
