Ilene B. Skolnik, of Oceanport, NJ, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and dedicated educator, passed away peacefully at her home on September 8, 2025, from complications of Parkinson’s Disease. She was 84.

Born on August 13, 1941, in Newark, NJ, Ilene was the daughter of Rosa and Julius Barr. A lifelong learner, she was a highly accomplished student, graduating from Irvington High School. Her passion for French culture led her to study at the Sorbonne in Paris during her junior year of college, an experience that shaped her lifelong love for travel. She completed her bachelor’s degree in English from George Washington University and earned a Ph.D. in Education from Rutgers University in 1993.

Ilene’s career was defined by her passion for inspiring others. She taught Senior Honors English at Middletown High School South, where she organized student trips to Broadway and Europe. Later, she became an Assistant Superintendent for the Lacey Township School District.  She continued to shape the lives of future teachers as an adjunct professor at Rutgers and Monmouth University.

A devoted wife and mother, Ilene married her loving husband, Robert Skolnik, on June 13, 1964. The couple settled in Oceanport in 1969, where they raised their two daughters. In her retirement, Ilene was a loving grandmother, a dedicated volunteer for the SPCA and local soup kitchen, and a perpetual student who enjoyed taking violin lessons and attending continuing education classes. An avid cook, she hosted holiday dinners and family gatherings with her signature French-inspired flair.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, Robert; her daughters Dr. Sharin Skolnik and Dr. Julie Isaacson and son-in-law Ken Isaacson; and her grandsons Zachary and Alexander Isaacson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ilene’s memory to the Parkinson’s Foundation.