Zelda A. Schwartz

Zelda A. Schwartz, 90, of Ridgefield, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 8, 2021. She was the loving wife of the late Dr. Raphael “Ray” Schwartz who predeceased her in 2016.

Mrs. Schwartz was born on December 26, 1930 in Brooklyn, NY; a daughter of the late Max and Minnie (Berger) Axelrod. Zelda enjoyed a large and close-knit family growing up. She received a BA in Education from Brooklyn College and a MA in Special Education from Western Connecticut State University. She and Ray were married for 62 years, spending their early married life in Nurnberg Germany while Ray was stationed there for Army service. Upon return to the USA, they lived in New Haven and Danbury, CT where Zelda began her teaching career at Morris Street elementary school. During their 62 years, they traveled extensively.

After retiring, Mrs. Schwartz lived in Newtown and then Ridgefield, where she adored the many activities offered by Founder’s Hall, the Ridgefield Library and local concerts and performances. She loved trips to New York City to see ballet, opera and theater and dining out. Mrs. Schwartz was a voracious reader and participated in several book clubs and Library events.

Mrs. Schwartz is survived by her children: Stuart Schwartz and his wife, Pam; Maura Schwartz and her husband Stan Nowakowski; and Linda Schwartz and her husband, Mike Larson. In addition, Mrs. Schwartz is survived by 2 granddaughters; Talia Mackenzie and her husband, Enzo and Allie Schwartz and her fiancé, Mateo Lopez as well as a sister, Evelyn Tibett.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Schwartz was predeceased by a daughter, Lonnie Schwartz and her elder sister Yetta Cohen.

Funeral services and interment were held privately at United Jewish Center Cemetery, Brookfield.

Contributions in memory of Mrs. Schwartz can be made to Founders Hall, RVNA Health or the Ridgefield Library. 

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