01/28/2026
The Englewood Cliffs Democratic Organization mourns the passing of a dedicated public servant and a true gentleman Joseph C. Favaro, a man whose life was defined by unwavering service, integrity, and love for his community. Joe devoted decades of his life to Englewood Cliffs—not for recognition, but out of a deep sense of responsibility to the people he served. Whether as a veteran, educator, municipal professional, or elected official, he carried himself with humility, fairness, and an unshakable commitment to doing what was right. His legacy is woven into the fabric of our borough, and his steady leadership and kindness will be remembered with gratitude and respect for generations to come.
Joseph C. Favaro, age 91, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, in Denville, New Jersey.
Born on June 6, 1934, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Joseph was the beloved son of Vincent and Sadie Favaro, both of whom predeceased him. From an early age, Joe embodied a deep sense of duty, service, and commitment to others—values that guided him throughout a long and impactful life.
Joseph was a disabled American veteran, proudly serving in the United States Navy during the Korean War. Following his military service, he earned his degree from Jersey City State College and dedicated 25 years as a teacher at Dwight Morrow High School, where he influenced generations of students with his dedication, discipline, and integrity.
In the 1960s, Joseph began a distinguished career in public service in Englewood Cliffs, serving as Borough Clerk before running for and winning a seat on the Borough Council. He continued his service through the mid-1980s, returning to the role of Borough Clerk and later also serving as Borough Administrator. In the early 1990s, he served as President of the Municipal Clerks Association of New Jersey, further highlighting his leadership and respect among peers across the state. In recognition of his professionalism and expertise, Joseph earned the designation of Master Municipal Clerk in 2000, a prestigious achievement reflecting his lifelong commitment to municipal excellence.
Even in retirement, Joseph’s dedication to civic duty never waned. He again ran for the Englewood Cliffs Council, eventually becoming President of the Council, where he served with distinction until 2015, when he retired for the final time.
Above all, Joseph was a devoted family man. He shared a loving marriage with his wife, Yvonne Favaro, and cherished their many years together. The two shared a deep love of travel, and Joseph took great joy in sharing those experiences with his family—from memorable cross-country car trips to traveling throughout Europe with his grandchildren. In later years, Joseph and Yvonne began a new chapter together when they moved to The Oaks at Denville, where they formed meaningful and lasting relationships and truly enjoyed the strong sense of community among fellow residents.
Joseph is survived by his beloved wife, Yvonne Favaro; his sons, Vincent Favaro and his wife Christine, and William Favaro and his wife Nicole; and his cherished grandchildren, Justin Favaro, John Favaro, Kyle Favaro, and Julia Favaro. He was predeceased by his brother, Matthew Favaro.
Joseph C. Favaro will be remembered as a patriot, educator, public servant, and devoted family man whose life was defined by service, leadership, and integrity. His legacy lives on in the community he served so faithfully and in the family who loved him deeply.
The visitation and service will be held this Saturday from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Norman Dean Funeral Home, 16 Righter Ave Denville, NJ
