Beloved mother, grandmother and friend, Esther passed away on July 5, 2025 at age 101. Born in Newark, Esther lived most of her life in Little Silver before moving to Middletown and later to Brandywine Living at the Sycamore in Shrewsbury.

In the latter half of her 101 years, Esther proved she had great inner strength and was indeed a survivor. Diagnosed with cancer in 1977, resulting in a mastectomy, she recovered and became a devoted volunteer for Reach to Recovery. For some thirty years, she visited and supported other victims of breast cancer, demonstrating her vitality and personifying the path to recovery and greater fulfillment. She continued this endeavor by telephone when she became physically unable to make in-person visits.

Esther showed further strength when ‘Hank’, her husband of only 34 years, died suddenly and prematurely. Rather than retreat, she went to work at Winter’s Furs in Red Bank, making new and long-lasting friendships. In addition, with her dear friend Vivianne, Esther traveled the world, enjoying new and varied experiences.

Esther was a 60+-year member of Congregation B’nai Israel, Rumson, during which time she served as a member and then secretary of the Board of Trustees.  She became active in the Red Bank Section of the National Council of Jewish Women, ultimately serving as president of that Section.  In addition, Esther was active in Sisterhood, Hadassah as well as other civic and charitable organizations. She became a volunteer at Riverview Hospital and, in fact, was a principal in the founding and initial organization of the Hospice suite where she worked tirelessly to furnish that original facility.

But, perhaps above all, Esther was a devoted and fiercely protective mother and grandmother. A missed phone call or tardy arrival produced panic and worry until the errant child was located. It didn’t matter if the ‘child’ was 7 or 70. She loved her children and grandchildren dearly.

Although the final few years were difficult, Esther persevered – just as she did when confronted first with cancer and then with the death of her husband. Her unconditional love and inner strength will endure, and she will be greatly missed.

Aside from Hank, Esther was predeceased by her mother, Gertrude, her father Samuel and brother David. She is survived by son Robert (‘Bobby’), daughter Lynn Ritchie (and her husband ‘Tommy’), grandson Adam Ritchie (and his wife Libby) and granddaughter Julie Trauger (and her husband Jon).

The family wants to thank the attentive caregivers and staff at Brandywine Sycamore – especially Regina, Esther’s long-time caregiver and friend.  Also, the compassionate and invaluable assistance from VITAS Hospice – especially, Rose, Kerry, Michael, Susan, Nichole, Cynthia and Diana.

A graveside service will be held at the Congregation B’nai Israel Cemetery, (located opposite 490 Riverdale Avenue W., Tinton Falls, NJ on Wednesday, July 9 at 10AM.

Donations may be made in Esther’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association, Susan G. Komen (breast cancer) and Marty’s Place Senior Dog Sanctuary (Allentown, NJ).