Remembering Robert “Bob” Zadra: Beloved Ridgewood Pharmacist, Educator, and Community Anchor
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, The Ridgewood and River Vale communities are mourning the loss of Robert “Bob” Zadra, who passed away on September 5, 2026, at age 82 following a brief illness. Known to generations of local families as the friendly face behind the counter at Town & Country Apothecary in Ridgewood, NJ, Bob dedicated nearly four decades to serving the community.
Early Life in the Bronx and Academic Excellence
Born and raised in the Bronx to Rose (nee Akawie) and George Zadra, Bob grew up as a resourceful child and the only hearing member of his immediate family. His father, a baker, introduced him early on to a deep love of good food and bakery treats.
After graduating from Taft High School while working part-time at a neighborhood pharmacy, Bob attended the Columbia School of Pharmacy. It was during his college years that he met the love of his life, Phyllis (nee Rehr), taking her to a New York Knicks game for their first date in January 1966. The couple enjoyed a devoted marriage of over 58 years.
Bob also pursued advanced studies in education, earning two master’s degrees and serving as principal at the Bentley School in Manhattan during the early 1970s before returning full-time to pharmacy work.
Four Decades at Town & Country Apothecary in Ridgewood
In the mid-1970s, Bob and Phyllis moved to River Vale, NJ, to raise their family, and Bob joined Town & Country Apothecary in downtown Ridgewood.
For nearly 40 years, Bob was an essential part of daily life in Ridgewood:
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Unmatched Work Ethic: Working six days a week, he routinely opened the pharmacy early to greet customers and handle prescriptions.
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Community Connection: From participating in annual 4th of July parades to Christmas Eve gift wrapping, Bob shared in generations of local family stories.
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Civic Leadership: In River Vale, Bob served as a dedicated school board member and board president, while also coaching local youth soccer and softball teams.
A Passion for Family, Travel, and New York Sports
Beyond his professional life, Bob was an avid sports enthusiast and world traveler. An early adopter of sports journalism apps and a die-hard supporter of New York area teams, Bob visited all but five Major League Baseball ballparks across the country.
A staple at the US Open tennis tournament for nearly 50 years, Bob held a cherished seat in the Grandstand section. He also attended Wimbledon, Roland Garros, and the Australian Open. Alongside Phyllis, he traveled to more than 30 countries across six continents in retirement.
Bob’s legacy lives on through his wife Phyllis, his daughters Gabrielle (Mark) and Jaime (Jeffrey), and his five grandchildren—Jonah, Zachary, Raphael, Henry, and Zoey—whom he encouraged every day with his life mantra: “Be your best self.”
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