Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home

09/08/2026

Joan M. Douglass

Joan Martindell Douglass passed away on August 28, 2026 while at the Country Meadows retirement community in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Joan was the dear wife of Merlin, who pre-deceased her by 8 years; mother to three sons and one daughter; grandmother to three grandchildren; great-grandmother to six great-grandchildren.

Born August 18, 1932 to Ruth and Harry Hartpence in Palmer Township, PA, Joan then grew up in Flemington and later in Pittstown, NJ. She graduated from Temple School of Dental Hygiene in Philadelphia and married (1953) Merlin Douglass, who lived on the farm across the lane. It was at Linden Farms, just outside of town where they lived for 46 years, raising their children on the family’s dairy farm. In addition to her career as a dental hygienist, Joan grew many of the family’s vegetables and kept the kitchen stocked with home-baked treats. In 1999, after the sale of the farm, they retired to Tucson AZ.

A Chevy camper van provided the means for retired Joan and Merlin to adventurously travel the country, enjoying National Parks, and visiting with friends and family. Home base was Baker Street where their community could be called a “street of friendships.”Joan volunteered at the local hospital, frequently hiked in Sabino Canyon and Saguaro National Park, and hosted many, many family visits. She and Merlin eventually graduated to ocean and river cruises - some favorites being to Alaska, the Columbia River, Baja, Holland’s waterways, and Europe’s Rhine, and Danube rivers.

After Merlin’s passing in 2018, Joan moved to the Country Meadows retirement community in Hershey, PA. During the 8 years spent there she immersed herself in as many activities as possible, forming wonderful friendships amongst both fellow residents and staff. While in her late 80’s and early 90’s, Joan impressed everyone by becoming a self-taught artist, even selling, exhibiting, and giving away her art. Her apartment overflowed with paintings of landscapes, old buildings, animals, and flowers.

Joan is survived by her sister Gerry Fields of South Pomfret, VT; children Keith Douglass (Deb) of Shermans Dale, PA; Susan Douglass (Gary Clow) of Boulder, CO; Jeff Douglass of Easton, PA; and David Douglass of Stroudsburg, PA (and his wife and family). Her grandchildren: Lauren Chubb (Christopher) of Newport, PA; Krista Straub (Randy) of Carlisle, PA; Sarah Blumenschein (Adam) of Landisburg, PA. Great-grandchildren: Ashley, Alexis, Lillie, Ryan, Olivia, and Emma.

Joan’s life was filled with love for her family and friends. She was an intelligent, creative, and caring person who was curious about the world around her. She remained sharp until the very end and will be so greatly missed.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held in Quakertown, NJ under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ. For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

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09/08/2026

Charlotte Zimmerman

Charlotte Zimmerman, née Fipps, passed away on August 31, 2026, in Lopatcong Township, New Jersey. She was born on May 31, 1933, in Tampa, Florida, daughter of the late Edgar Franklin Fipps and Evelyn Ruby (Worsley) Fipps and later attended Bound Brook High School in New Jersey.

Throughout her life, Charlotte worked a number of jobs, but she took pride in being a great mom raising her four children and providing a clean and inviting home. She was devoted to her family and was a compassionate caregiver to her late husband, Charles “Bucky” Zimmerman. Her home and her care for those she loved were at the center of her life.

Charlotte found joy in sewing and crocheting things that made a house feel warm and welcoming. She loved to spend a day shopping with family. She also spent happy times bowling and playing games with family. In the kitchen, she expressed her love through cooking, especially her yellow rice with chicken, stuffed cabbage, and broccoli salad. Holidays were made sweeter by the cookies she baked, and she especially enjoyed eating oatmeal raisin cookies.

She also treasured the moments of fun and companionship that filled the years. She loved dancing with Bucky at many functions alongside their many friends. Music was another lasting pleasure in her life, and she enjoyed listening to the country songs of Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, and Eddie Arnold. Trips in their camper, traveling throughout the United States to visit family and friends created memories that remained close to her heart.

Charlotte is survived by her daughters, Judy Lambert and her husband Kenneth of Lopatcong Township, New Jersey, Pamela "Jane" Zimmerman and her husband, Steve Feldman of New Harmony, Utah, and Robyn Pettingill and her husband, Dale of Fruitland, Idaho; by her son, Jack Zimmerman and Sherry Piesco of Tappan, New York; and by her sister, Marilyn Porell of Lopatcong Township, New Jersey as well as nine grandchildren, Barton, Ben, Kenneth, Wesley, George, Jake, Matthew, Evelyn and Elia and eight great-grandchildren. She leaves behind a family who knew her as a loving mother, sister, friend, Grammy, Gigi and who will carry forward the memory of her care, her warmth, faith and the many traditions she created.

In addition to her parents, Charlotte was preceded in death by her husband, Charles “Bucky” Zimmerman in 2016 and her brother, Donald Fipps.

Family and friends are invited to a viewing on September 11, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, New Jersey 08822. A funeral service at the funeral home will begin at 2:00 p.m, followed by a graveside service at 3:00 p.m. at Sand Brook Cemetery, 118 Sandbrook Headquarters Road, Stockton, New Jersey 08559.

For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

Charlotte will be remembered for the love she gave so generously, the comfort she created for others, and the happiness she found in family, friendship, music, food, and home. Her memory will remain a lasting blessing to those who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Charlotte's memory may be made to the Hunterdon Health Foundation by clicking on the link below.

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09/07/2026

Wishing you all a fun and safe Labor Day!

09/05/2026

From the moment you walk through our doors, you will be treated like one of our own.

As a family-owned funeral home, we understand the importance of compassionate care. Our team will help you create a meaningful tribute that truly honors your loved one.

Watch this brief video to learn more about the family-owned difference.

09/04/2026

When we lose a loved one to su***de or overdose, so many different emotions swirl through us and societal pressures unnerve us. But you should be able to simply grieve for your loss. Check out this article to learn more about common emotional reactions to su***de or overdose loss and how to navigate them successfully.

It seems like it’s all over the news. The opioid crisis is ravaging communities. Another celebrity dies of an overdose. Another teenager takes his own life. Grief is always hard...

09/04/2026

C. Jane Reasoner Fraass Groff

C. Jane Reasoner Fraass Groff, lovingly known as Jane, passed away on August 31, 2026, in Raritan Township, New Jersey. She was 93.

Born on April 14, 1933, in Flemington, New Jersey, Jane was the daughter of the late Lloyd Reasoner and Elizabeth Carkhuff Reasoner. The youngest of eleven children, she was raised in Flemington and lived in the area her entire life, remaining deeply connected to the community that shaped her and that she, in turn, brightened through the years.

Jane was a graduate of the Flemington Choir School in 1950 and went on to graduate from Flemington High School with the Class of 1951. Her strong work ethic began early, as she started working at the age of 14 at the Vlahakis luncheonette and ice cream shop in Flemington. Over the course of her life, she became a familiar and cherished presence to many through her work. She served for 32 years as manager of the former L&S Variety Store on Main Street in Flemington, and also was a hostess at TJ's Pancake House and the Country Griddle in Flemington. Through these roles, she became part of the daily lives of countless neighbors and friends.

As a member of the Flemington community, she served as a former president of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Flemington Elks Lodge. Jane was also quite proud of being an active member of the Soroptimist organization which supports opportunities in business for women and girls.

Jane will be remembered as a true social butterfly who loved being around people. She loved to sing and dance, and she carried herself with a warmth that made others feel welcome. She loved a good joke and the expressions on her face when she laughed were always priceless. She always had a good word to say about someone, a gift that reflected both her generous spirit and the kindness she extended so naturally. She was a long-time member of Flemington United Methodist Church, where she sang in the church choir for 70 years.

In addition to her parents, Jane was preceded in death by her ten siblings and her husband, W. Howard Groff Sr.

Jane leaves behind a family who will cherish her memory with love. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Pamela and Michael Santo of Hampton, New Jersey; her son, Bradly Fraass and his late wife Andrea of Columbus, New Jersey; her daughter and son-in-law, Joi and Donald Schuyler of Califon, New Jersey; her daughter, Yvonne Fraass and her partner F. Dennis Tirpok of Flemington, New Jersey; Her grandsons Wes and Eric Santo, her 5 great-grandchildren, her stepdaughter, Deborah Patrylo; her stepson, W. Howard Groff Jr. (deceased).; as well as her five step-grandchildren. Their lives were touched by her steady presence, her conversation and the joy she brought into ordinary days.

A note from her 4 children: Imagine looking back at your life knowing that your mother was extraordinary. There was no luck in her life, she was wired to deal with whatever life threw at her and she chose to do it with dignity and a sense of humor, Imagine if your mother was simply...wonderful...we can!!!

There will be a celebration of life scheduled at a later date.

Cremation services are private and under the direction of Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main St. Flemington NJ 08822. For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

Jane’s life was one of devotion to family, work, church, and the people around her. She will be remembered for her voice in song, her sense of humor, and her enduring kindness. Her loving memory will live forever in our hearts.

View C. Jane Reasoner Fraass Groff's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/03/2026

Barbara Ann Shuba

Barbara Ann Shuba, devoted wife for 60 years, cherished mother and gram, kind hearted friend, and beloved teacher for 38 years, was called home to the Lord peacefully on September 2nd, 2026 at 6:00 PM with her devoted husband, Ernie and her adored children, Patrick and his wife Tammy and daughter Kathleen along with other family members at her side. Barbara was 84 years old.

Born in Wilkes Barre (Hanover Township) Pennsylvania in 1942 to Paul and Marie Shea, Barbara's life was a testament to love, loyalty to family and friends, and service to others. She battled breast cancer for almost six years with a determination to defeat it, especially after being in remission twice.

Barbara was a resident of Flemington, Hunterdon County, New Jersey for 54 years. She was a proud graduate of Misericordia University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education. Barbara enjoyed a 38 year career as an elementary teacher in the Branchburg Township School District in Branchburg, New Jersey, where she retired in June 2006. In 1989, Barbara was one of the early recipients of the annual New Jersey Governor’s Teacher Recognition Award. She received a $3000 grant for her school, at the time, Old York School, which she shared with her teacher colleagues to buy items for classrooms.

Barbara's teaching experience spanned several primary and elementary school grades...kindergarten, first, second, and third grades. One year, it even involved being a pre-first grade teacher for students who needed extra time to mature before being in grade one.

Barbara had a special love for books and enjoyed reading many novels during her retirement years. She also enjoyed poetry which she shared with her many students. One of her former students went on many years later to nominate her for the publication Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers, 2000 edition. “The best teachers in America selected by the best students” according to the award letter.

Above all, Barbara was an extraordinary, compassionate person who was always looking to lift others up, offer encouragement, and help in any way she could. She cared deeply about the people in her life and gave freely of her time, attention, and her heart. In 1964, she met the love of her life, Ernest (Ernie), while they were both first year teachers. In June 1966, they were married and initially lived in Somerville and Raritan before buying their first and only home in 1972 in Raritan Township, where they have resided for 54 years.

Some of Barbara’s most cherished times were those spent with immediate and extended family at their vacation home located in Pocono Lake, PA. In addition, she thoroughly liked their annual summer trip to Long Beach island, New Jersey. One of her favorite sayings was “I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck!”

Barbara is survived by her husband Ernest R. Shuba, son Patrick and his wife Tammy, daughter Kathleen Herring (Joseph Schmuckler), grandchildren Nicholas, Brittany, Christopher, Timothy, Caroline, Emma, four nephews and one niece. She was preceded in death by her parents and three sisters, Peggy Phillips, Joan Shea and USAF Major, Pauline (Polly) Johnston.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105-9959 or to the American Cancer Society.

Her family will receive relatives and friends for a public visitation on Thursday, September 10, 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. A private funeral service at the funeral home followed by interment in St. Magdalen Cemetery will be held Friday morning September 11th.

A public celebration of her life will take place at Dolce Restaurant, 161 Main St. in Flemington at 11:30 am on Friday, September 11, 2026.

Arrangements are under the direction of Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home. For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

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09/03/2026

We understand that during a time of loss, families want to work with someone who cares and goes the extra mile. At Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, we strive to do just that with dignity, respect, and professionalism. We are fully committed to this community and are dedicated to helping families through the grieving process with kindness and compassion. Come see the difference for yourself! Call us today or visit www.holcombefisher.com.

09/03/2026

Mark C. Blaire

Mark C. Blaire, age 66 years, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at the Hunterdon Medical Center, Raritan Township, New Jersey. He was born on September 15, 1959, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Mark grew up in Santa Monica, California, where he developed a love of surfing, boating, and skiing. A strong-willed man with a deep appreciation for both work and family, he carried those qualities throughout his life.

A proud United States Air Force veteran, Mark served from 1979 to 1987 and was mainly stationed in Germany. He obtained the rank of Staff Sergeant before his honorable discharge. His years in the Air Force reflected his sense of duty and commitment, qualities that remained with him throughout his life. Following his military service, he lived in Connecticut in the 1990's and had made Hunterdon County, New Jersey, his home since 2003.

In his professional life, Mark was employed as an Environmental Engineer and served as the Northeast Area Environmental Manager for CMC Steel in Sayreville, New Jersey. He took great pride in his work and earned the respect of his peers and colleagues through his dedication and professionalism.

Mark found joy in many of life’s simple and enduring pleasures. He loved driving and fixing his Toyota, took pleasure in putting many miles on his vehicles. He was also an animal lover, especially devoted to dogs. Above all, he loved his family and always showed up for them. He especially cherished attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and dance recitals, and he was lovingly known to them as “Grandpa” or “Skippy.”

He is survived by his wife, Lori (Castoro) Blaire, his partner in marriage for 27 years. He also leaves behind his children, Ashley Blaire Gomez (Oscar), Ryan Blaire, Meredith Lorig (Steven), and Ian Rogow (Kathryn). Mark was a proud grandfather to Emme, Greyson, Pierce, Willa, Hazel, Theo, Kyra, and Charlie, each of whom brought him great happiness.

He is also survived by his mother, Kristin Blaire Chanin; his sister, Stephanie Paige (Frank Fazekas); his brother, Gregory Blaire (Suzanne) and their children, Emily and Matthew; and his sister, Tara Cantone (John). He will also be remembered with love by his in-laws, Cindy and Jeff Wagner, along with their children and grandchildren. Mark was preceded in death by his father, Jeffrey Chanin, who died in 2001.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a funeral service on Friday, September 4, 2026 at 11:00 AM in the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. Following the service folks are invited back to the family home for a luncheon. The address will be announced for those attending the service. Interment, with military honors, will take place on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at the family plot in Willowbrook Cemetery, 395 Main Street, Westport, Connecticut 06880.

Mark C. Blaire will be remembered for his strength, his devotion to those he loved, his pride in his work and service, and the joy he found in family, travel, and the everyday moments that mattered most. His memory will remain a lasting blessing to all who knew and loved him.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

View Mark C. Blaire's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/01/2026

Virginia M. LoMonaco

Virginia M. LoMonaco, née Little, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026, in Raritan Township, New Jersey, at the age of 98, she was daughter of the late Ernest F. and Lillian M. (Oakhem) Little.

Born on January 29, 1928, in Boston, Massachusetts, Virginia lived a life centered on home, family, and the quiet comforts that brought her joy. A proud homemaker, she created a warm and welcoming household and took special pleasure in caring for those she loved. She liked to cook for her family, especially Italian favorites, and found happiness in decorating her home for the holidays, making each season feel festive and full of heart.

Virginia had a deep love for animals and opened her home to many over the years. She loved all animals, cared for several dogs, took in many stray cats, and even had a monkey named Christopher for a short time. For more than 35 years, she lovingly cared for her parrot, Charlie, a lasting companion in her life. In quieter moments, she enjoyed listening to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and other classic crooners, reading mystery and horror novels by favorite authors such as James Patterson and Stephen King, listening to Coast to Coast AM on her transistor radio, and settling in to watch a good horror movie. She also enjoyed a cold glass of Budweiser beer.

Those who knew Virginia will remember a woman who was private and who kept close to herself and her family. Her Catholic faith was important throughout her life and remained a steady presence to her.

She is survived by her daughter, Maria Votta of Flemington, New Jersey; her sons, Michael (Annette) LoMonaco of Long Island, New York, and Frank LoMonaco of North Carolina; as well as her eight grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind the love and memory of the family circle she cherished so deeply, and the many moments shared around her table, in her home, and in the everyday routines that meant so much to her.

In addition to her parents, Virginia was preceded in death by her husband of more than 50 years, Anthony LoMonaco, her brother, Ernest 'Chubby' Little; her close friend, Norma; and her son-in-law, Dominick Votta. Their memories remained part of the story of her life and the bonds she held dear.

A viewing will be held on September 12, 2026, from 12:00 noon a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main St, Flemington, New Jersey 08822. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton RC Church, 105 Summer Road, Readington Township, New Jersey 08887. Interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Virginia's name may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 225 N Michigan Ave., Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601 or by clicking the link below. For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

Virginia will be remembered for the home she made, the family she loved, the animals she cared for, and the simple, enduring pleasures that filled her days. Her memory will remain a comfort to those who knew and loved her.

View Virginia M. LoMonaco's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.