Deena Goldsmith Bernhaut

Deena Goldsmith Bernhaut, 85, recently of Whippany, NJ, formerly of Millburn and Springfield, NJ, died peacefully on July 31, 2024. In her final days, Deena was surrounded by her cherished family. Born on October 24, 1938 in Philadelphia, to Rose (Sklar) and Milton Goldsmith, she enjoyed an idyllic childhood growing up in Hillside, NJ.

Deena graduated from New York University and trained as a teacher. She began her teaching career in Chatham, NJ, then took time off to fully devote herself to raising her three children. Later in life she returned to teaching, retiring from the Orange school system. Deena was a consummate volunteer, spending many hours at Congregation B’nai Israel and later, Susan G. Komen, and delivering meals to homebound senior citizens through SAGE Eldercare.

Deena was blessed with wonderful children Beth Papermaster (Dan), Sam (Shani), and Richard (Joni) and adored by her grandchildren Nathan and Molly Papermaster, Leeza, Neil and Eli Bernhaut. She was predeceased by her parents and her loving sister, Barbi Hyman.

After her marriage to ex-husband Charlie Bernhaut, Deena felt very fortunate to remain connected to her late mother-in-law, Evelyn Perlmutter, and sisters-in-law Sylvia Brody and Wilma Pitman.

Deena loved to read, do crossword puzzles, watch every CSI and Law & Order show, listen to classical music and opera, and spend time with family and friends. Deena was full of happiness and joy, and well into her 80s was the first on the dance floor when celebrating a bar or bat mitzvah. Deena’s face lit up every time she spoke about her children and grandchildren and her big bright smile was ever present even in her final days.