Raena Leigh Chalas

It is with the deepest sorrow we announce the passing of Raena Leigh Breitenbach Chalas on March 25, 2026.  Raena left us far too soon at just 44 years old after a courageous 12-year battle with ALS. 

She was a beloved daughter to Margaret Johnson Breitenbach and Craig Breitenbach. Devoted wife to Nickolas Chalas. Cherished eldest sister to Alexandra (Brian) Melso, Arthur Jay, Samantha (Matthew) Spero and Jacqueline (Nora) Breitenbach. Loving stepmom to Violetta Chalas and daughter-in-law to Arletha Chalas. Step daughter to Michael Keller and Joyce Jaeger. Doting aunt to nephew and nieces Asher and Skyler Melso and Riley Spero. 

Predeceased in death by her grandparents Frank and Millie Johnson, Jane and Harry Breitenbach, father-in-law Savas Chalas, her Uncle Franky Johnson,  and extended family Mary Ellen Healy (Aunt Missy) and Edie & Bob D'Andrea. 

Raena was raised in Ramsey, New Jersey. She was a talented and proud member of the Ramsey High School marching band and graduated in the Class of 1999.  Dedicated to lifelong learning and helping others, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Education from William Paterson University. Deeply connected to her community, she remained an active presence in Ramsey for much of her life working as the produce manager at ShopRite and forming lasting relationships with those she served. 

She was a dedicated and hardworking person her entire life. She truly enjoyed being around others and took pride in her work, never shying away from effort and always giving her best. Her warmth, kindness, and genuine love for people left a lasting impression on everyone she met. 

She later married and made her home in Monroe, New York, with her beloved husband Nickolas and became a loving stepmom to Violetta. She had a deep love and unbreakable bond with her dogs, Jackson and Maggie, who remained faithfully by her side, offering comfort and companionship throughout her journey. 

She cherished her family beyond measure. As the eldest of five siblings she had a heavy hand in helping raise her three sisters and brother. She adored her nieces and nephew, who brought her endless pride and happiness. Whether it be spoiling them with gifts or making them laugh on FaceTime, she always made sure to be the best aunt she could.

Though her disease took much from her, it never diminished her positive spirit or her remarkable sense of humor. She continued to find joy in life and brought laughter to those around her, even in the most difficult moments. Every day she lived with ALS was a triumph; she was beating the odds, fighting her devastating disease, and she never gave up hope for a cure.

Her positivity was unwavering, whether through a simple Snoopy- themed good morning message, or her daily bird report from her feeders. She always shared the glimmers of happiness she was experiencing. That light she shared so freely will continue to shine in all of us. 

She found joy in so much throughout her life, always adding to her recipe books, and her enthusiasm for decorating for every holiday. She had a huge passion for music, playing multiple instruments, and a huge fan of classic rock including the Beatles, Pink Floyd, Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, and Aerosmith. Often taking her siblings to rock concerts, burning CDs of playlists, and blasting music throughout the house.  

While we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the incredible strength, love, and joy she brought into our lives. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. We will continue to see her in every high-flying eagle, every cardinal on a snow-covered branch, and hear her in every early morning songbird. 

Memorial services will be held on Monday, March 30, 2026, from 4-8 PM at Van Emburgh-Sneider-Pernice Funeral Home, 109 Darlington Avenue, Ramsey, NJ, 07446. 

Mass service will be held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 10 AM at St Paul's Church, 200 Wyckoff Ave, Ramsey, NJ, 07446.  Entombment will follow at Maryrest Cemetery, 770 Darlington Avenue, Mahwah, NJ 07430. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Raena to the ALS United Greater New York,  Eleventh Hour Rescue or RBARI.

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