Obituary

Rochelle (Shelly) Lubetkin-Perillo passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on Sunday, February 8, 2026, after a courageous battle with breast cancer.

Shelly was truly a force of nature — vibrant, magnetic, and impossible not to love. For ten years, she proudly served as the “Big Boss” at the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), a title she embraced so completely that even her email signature read “ladyboss.” She brought energy, humor, and heart to everything she touched, inspiring colleagues and friends alike.

She was the light of my life, always encouraging my more reserved nature to loosen up, take chances, and have more fun. Most will remember her infectious laugh — the kind that filled a room and instantly drew people in. Shelly was a true go-getter who approached life with enthusiasm, confidence, and fearless joy.

Together, we traveled the world, enjoying countless cruises and adventures across Europe, Australia, South America, and Mexico. Our standing joke with fellow travelers was that every trip was “free,” because we were spending our children’s college fund and their inheritance. Of course, we had no children — which made the joke all the sweeter.

We were well known in almost every diner in New Jersey and many of the state’s finest restaurants. We dined out so often that at one point, we half-seriously considered selling the stove.

Shelly was my soulmate and my best friend. Life will never be the same without her, and I will miss her beyond words.

Shelly lived fully, loved deeply, and left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Chuck, her forever loving husband