Josephine (Strelec) Moore Milstead

Josephine (Strelec) Moore Milstead, 94, of Rensselaer NY, peacefully entered into eternal rest at Daughters of Sarah on June 2, 2026. Jean, as she was fondly known as, was born on August 24, 1931 in Boonton, NJ to Andrew Strelec and Anna (Tinus) Strelec. Jean was the oldest of seventeen children.

Residing in five different states during her lifetime, Jean developed many connections and created a loving family with her first husband, Donald.

Jean was a beautician prior to her first marriage and later became a homemaker in taking care of her family.

Jean was known to many as being a spirited individual with a strong faith. She enjoyed many hobbies, both individually and with her family and friends. From playing cards, completing puzzles, creating beautiful floral gardens, being an avid African Violet grower to display in shows, and doing intricate cross-stitch designs. In addition, she enjoyed watching westerns and game shows. Also known for her many recipes, including her apple pie. She loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them to create lasting memories. She will be dearly missed.

Jean is survived by her four children, Sheryl (James) Purtell of Rensselaer, NY, Donald A. Moore Jr. of Apopka, FL, Kimberly Prentiss of Netcong, NJ, and Matthew (Pamela) Moore of Sun City Center, FL. Ten grandchildren; Donald, Sara, Ethan, Andrew, Josie, Lucy, Heather, William, Jared and Emily. Seven great-grandchildren; Caedon, Melody, Meadow, Kaleb, Dylan, Cole and Vallen. She is also survived by her siblings Catherine Fiorentino, Barbara Strelec, Robert Strelec, Stephen (Cynthia) Strelec, Rose Marie (Jim) D’Augustine, Patricia (Howard) Mann, and Christine (Al) Penza. Also her sister-in-laws Edith Strelec, Susan Strelec, Frances Strelec, Anna Strelec and Mary Jean Strelec. In addition, her many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by husbands Donald A. Moore, Sr. and Marshall Milstead. Siblings, Andrew Strelec, Michael Strelec, George Strelec, Margaret Morrison, John Strelec, Frank Strelec, Diedrich Strelec, Anthony Strelec and Fred Strelec.

The family extends a special thank you to the staff at Daughters of Sarah for Jean’s care the past 3 years.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Dangler Funeral Home in Morris Plains, NJ. Funeral services will be at 11:00 AM, followed by interment at Restland Memorial Park in East Hanover, NJ.

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