Martha Francis Schwartz Kurzweil, affectionately known as “Mopsy” to so many who loved her, passed away peacefully, on May 2, 2026 with her family by her side. Born on July 8, 1936, in New York to the late George Schwartz and the late Irma Manheimer Schwartz, Martha lived a life defined by fierce independence, unwavering determination, and a deep commitment to serving others.

Martha graduated from Bound Brook High School in 1953 and later earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Rutgers University in 1975. She went on to build a remarkable career with the Monmouth County Board of Social Services, where she worked until finally retiring at the age of 74. Martha absolutely loved her work, especially with the homeless and mentally ill population, and she took great pride in the way she advocated for and assisted her clients each and every day. Even after retirement, she couldn’t stay away from helping others, volunteering on the psychiatric floor at Jersey Shore Medical Center.

Martha’s passion for service extended well beyond her own community. She made numerous trips to Israel, volunteering in various capacities with the Israeli army. She was incredibly passionate about the work she did while she was there and carried those memories with her always.

Mopsy always looked forward to every summer, knowing that her best friend from kindergarten, Pati, would spend the month of August in Manasquan. Mopsy was as much a part of Pati’s family as Pati and her family were a part of hers. Their 80 years of friendship was something very precious to them both. Martha was also blessed with the very special, long term friendship she had with Sharon, a woman she had first met while working for the county.

Martha was fiercely independent, strong willed, and one of the most determined women we ever knew. She loved bright colors, dogs, gardening, shopping at Wegmans, keeping everyone stocked with mangos, and spending time at the beach.

Mopsy was incredibly proud of her three daughters, Erica Kurzweil Schneider, Julie Kurzweil Pfister-Cohen (Ted), and Nancy Kurzweil; her grandchildren, Jordan Schneider, (Sara) Jocelyn Schneider (Patrick), Daniel Pfister, Molly Pfister, Brett Pfister, her two adorable great grandsons Aston and Remy and her great grand puppy, Lola Marie.

Martha will be remembered and missed by so many. May she find the comfort and eternal peace that she so deserves. May her memory be a blessing.

The family will be holding a private graveside service for Martha. The family will be sitting Shiva on Monday, May 4 5:30pm-7:00pm at Torat El 301 Monmouth Road Oakhurst, NJ 07755. Shiva Minyan will be held at 7:00pm.

Memorial donations may be sent to Birthright Israel:

Birthright Israel Foundation

P.O. Box 21615

New York, NY 10087

https://birthrightisrael.foundation