Arlene Ross Gross died from stroke complications on September 13, at the age of 96. Just 9 days ago, she was driving herself home from lunch and bridge with friends; something she loved to do more than almost anything.
Arlene was first-generation American, the only daughter of Sarah and Eli Ross who had just years earlier emigrated from Russia via Ellis Island. She was raised and educated in Brockton, MA. Her grades qualified her as a top candidate for Radcliffe but the Jewish quotas were not in her favor. She earned a full scholarship to attend Simmons College where she received her B.S. in the Pre-Professional program in 1947.
She moved to New York City’s Stuyvesant town with her new husband, Peter Scott.
Years went by, and the now family of four moved to West Orange, NJ, where she lived for over 40 years, until she moved to Verona, NJ.
Her first marriage ended in divorce. In 1968, she was introduced to Martin Gross, whom she married in 1970. He was an extraordinary husband, father, stepfather, and human being. They had a special partnership until his death in 2005.
Arlene was an active volunteer in the community, serving on local boards which included the YM/YWHA of Essex County, the Board of Directors for the UJA Women’s Division of Essex County, and was the Simmons Alumnae Representative for NJ. Her volunteerism extended to politics with her and Marty’s fierce devotion to Bill Bradley’s political career.
Anyone who knew Arlene, knew her opinions on just about everything. She was smart, strong-willed, and determined to always speak her mind. Her desire to learn motivated her to become an advanced bridge player. Her day started with reading the NYTimes and the Star Ledger, and ended with a scotch before dinner and the PBS News Hour. In between she tried to fit all she wanted to do in a day.
Arlene loved being a Great Grandmother to her daughter Emily’s step-grandchildren, and an honorary Great Grandmother to the great grandchildren of her dear friends, the now deceased Bernie and Fran Dreskin. All the Dreskins treated Arlene as family, including her in every family function. Jill Dreskin was a second daughter and Arlene’s best friend.
In addition to Marty, she is preceded in death by Jonathan Gross (stepson). She is survived by her daughter, Emily Scott (Rick Bolanos), and son, Bill Scott.
Arlene lived and ended her life on her terms.
Per her wishes there will be no services.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to the Scott/Ross Center for Community Service at Simmons College (300 The Fenway, Boston, MA 02115). The Center is in honor of Arlene’s and Emily’s ardent activism. It’s mission is to facilitate and promote community service and service learning for Simmons College faculty, staff, and students.
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