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Hannah N. Nappi, 31, of Ridgewood, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 26, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Hannah was born in Moscow, Russia, and was adopted by Gregory and Cynthia Nappi at 13 months of age. From the very beginning, she brought joy, laughter, and unconditional love to everyone fortunate enough to know her.
She is survived by her loving parents, Gregory and Cynthia Nappi; her sister, Emily Nappi; and her grandparents, Joseph and Dorothy Verdone. She is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and cherished friends. Hannah was predeceased by her grandparents, Vincent and Annamay Nappi.
A graduate of Midland Park High School, Hannah devoted much of her life to caring for animals. She volunteered with several animal rescue organizations throughout Bergen County and opened her heart and home to many beloved pets over the years. Her beloved cat, Gigi her faithful companion and constant source of comfort passed away peacefully just one day after Hannah, on Monday, July 27, 2026, as though they could not bear to be apart. Her compassion for animals reflected the kindness and generosity that defined her character.
Hannah had a deep appreciation for history and proudly considered herself a historian. She was especially passionate about the medieval period and found great joy in bringing history to life through medieval reenactment. She belonged to several reenactment groups and traveled throughout the year to participate in events, where she embraced the customs, traditions, and spirit of the era she loved. It was while attending one of these cherished events, doing what she loved most, that Hannah's life came to an unexpected end.
Hannah had a way of making people smile with her quick wit, kind heart, and unwavering authenticity. She lived life on her own terms and inspired others to embrace the things they loved without hesitation.
Above all else, Hannah treasured her family. She loved spending time together, especially when it included one of her favorite traditions, a good lobster dinner. Her warmth, curiosity, generous spirit, and unique sense of adventure will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.
Even in her passing, Hannah's generosity continued. Through the selfless decision of her family to donate her organs, she gave the gift of life to five people, leaving a lasting legacy of hope and compassion.
Family and friends are invited to visit on Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff, New Jersey. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, July 31, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Church of the Presentation, 271 West Saddle River Road, Upper Saddle River, New Jersey. Interment will follow at Christ the King Cemetery, Franklin Lakes, New Jersey.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Hannah's memory may be made to the Center for Organ Recovery & Education (CORE), 204 Sigma Drive, RIDC Park, Pittsburgh, PA 15238, or by visiting www.core.org.
Though her time with us was far too short, Hannah's compassion, adventurous spirit, and extraordinary final gift will continue to touch lives for generations to come.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Hannah N Nappi, please visit our floral store.