PLAINFIELD, NJ — The Plainfield community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Lubia Estevez, a devoted Plainfield School District employee and cherished member of the community, who tragically lost her life during Monday’s severe flooding.
Lubia Estevez, age 60, served as a food services cashier in the district for 15 years, most recently at Plainfield High School, where her warmth, kindness, and unwavering generosity left a lasting impact on students and staff alike.
The fatal incident unfolded as heavy rains overwhelmed the area, causing widespread flash flooding. Police say Estevez and her friend, Forest Whitlock, were driving along Stelle Avenue when their vehicle turned into a ditch and was swept into Cedar Brook by the powerful floodwaters. The tragedy occurred just blocks from the high school where Lubia worked and was known by so many.
Family members shared that Estevez had been on her way to bingo, one of her favorite pastimes, when the disaster struck.
“She helped anybody. If you needed a ride, if you needed somewhere to stay, her door was open, her car door was open,” said Nydajia Whitlock, granddaughter of Forest Whitlock. “There’s no words that could describe the pain that I’m feeling right now.”
The devastating news has rippled through the school district. Kiesha Mack, food service director, said, “Everybody’s been calling us, just telling us they are sorry for the family, for us. We are her family. My staff members—everybody was hurt this morning.”
Lubia was more than a colleague—she was a friend, a helper, and a pillar of quiet strength. Fellow co-worker Tawanda Miles shared, “Lubia just was a sweet person. Like, she’d do anything to help us no matter what. It’s just heartbreaking right now.”
Friends, coworkers, and students alike are remembering her not just for the years she gave to the school system, but for the love, laughter, and selflessness she gave to everyone she met.
As Plainfield continues to process the shock of this tragedy, Lubia Estevez’s memory remains a beacon of kindness and community spirit. She will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
Rest in peace, Lubia. Your legacy of love lives on in every life you touched.
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