Hilda Smith Taylor

Hilda (Van Der Eems) Smith-Taylor, 88, of North Haledon NJ, devoted mother and grandmother, went to be with her Lord on February 18th, 2026, at Windmere Christian Health Community. 

Hilda was born on May 3rd, 1937, in Paterson, New Jersey. A lifelong resident of Bergen County, Hilda started her professional career in banking out of high school, and later as an accountant for many years. It was through banking that she met her late husband, Edward Schafer, with whom she raised two sons. 

Hilda was predeceased by her loving sons: Kurt Schafer, Karl Schafer, and Scott Smith.

She is survived by her brother, William (Marcia) Vander Eems, of Wyckoff, New Jersey; sister Henrietta (Albert) Oostema, of Jenison, Michigan; and her daughter-in-law Lois Schafer of South Carolina. 

Hilda is also survived by her four grandchildren: Kyle Schafer, Kollin Schafer, Caleb Schafer, and Zoe Schafer. 

A private celebration of life service for those who also lived at Windmere is being planned at a later date, followed by an intimate gathering of close family and tight friends at the home of her brother, William Vander Eems, in April. 

In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Hilda may be made to Windmere Christian Health Community.  https://windmerenj.org/

Arrangements are made by Vander Plaat Funeral Home of Wyckoff. 

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