Robert J. Schultz

He was born in Brooklyn and raised in Queens Village.

“Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.” - Marian Wright Edelman

Dr. Schultz was the embodiment of Marian Wright Edelman’s quote as he dedicated his life to improving the lives of Farmingdale students and faculty, his family and friends, and his local community.

He worked his way through school earning a degree in education at St. John’s University where he met his wife, Laura. He then joined Farmingdale Schools as an English teacher at Howitt Middle School, simultaneously continuing his study of education at Hofstra University where he completed his doctorate. Dr. Schultz pursued a lifelong career in education, inspiring students, co-workers, and friends with his warm and gentle kindness.

Dr. Schultz left a lasting impact on every student who crossed his path over his 39 years of service to Farmingdale schools. He often was surprised and pleased to encounter former students who recognized him around town decades after he had taught them. He was passionate about education and dedicated himself to helping students achieve their goals both in the classroom and in their personal lives. His commitment to his students extended into his career as an administrator, as he showed that same level of dedication to the faculty and staff that he led as an Administrator in the Farmingdale School District.

He also had a tireless love and devotion to his family that drove him throughout his life. While he taught English at Howitt he taught love, kindness, respect, and the value of education to his children and grandchildren, qualities that will continue to live on through them.

Following his career in education, Dr. Schultz was deeply involved in community and civic groups in Syosset, where he resided for 44 years. He was a board member for Residents for a More Beautiful Syosset, where he used his passion for gardening to improve his local community. He was also active in the Syosset-Woodbury Rotary Club.

His sudden death is a devastating loss to his wife Laura of 50 years, his children Karen and Kevin, their respective spouses John and Miranda, and his grandchildren Bobby and Caroline. He is also survived by his sisters Carol Nasiatka and Doris Quagliara, and his brother Gregory Schultz. He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Muriel Schultz.

To honor Dr. Schultz's memory and continue his legacy of promoting education and community involvement, The Dr. Robert J. Schultz Memorial Scholarship Fund is being established to assist students of Farmingdale, NY with similar passions in their pursuit of higher education. Donations to the fund are encouraged at the following address: https://www.gofundme.com/f/zc4ya-dr-robert-schultz-memorial-scholarship-fund

“Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” - Aristotle

“Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.” - Nelson Mandela

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.beney-fh.com for the Schultz family.