Fern Sadkin Rough

Fern Sadkin Rough, of Weston, Florida, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025. To many family and friends, she was “Mema,” but to everyone who knew her, she was a source of love, comfort, and joy.

Born in Jackson Heights, New York, on March 13, 1941, Fern spent much of her life in New York (Beechhurst, Great Neck, and Forest Hills) and Florida (North Miami, Miami Beach), with a brief stop in Adelphi, Maryland. For the past several decades, Weston, Florida was her home and the center of her family life.

Fern was the beloved daughter of Betty and Herbert Sadkin, who instilled in her a sense of elegance and a love of family. She was the devoted mother of her oldest daughter, Ivy Greaner, married to Marc Eller, previously married to Michael Greaner, and their two children, Alex and Hallie beloved by Fern. Her deceased youngest daughter, Cammi Goldberg, previously was married to Larry Goldberg, and is remembered with much love by Cammi’s children, Joshua and his wife Davi, their two children Lev and Carmel. Fern was also the proud grandmother of Cammi’s son, Aaron.

She shared a beautiful 26-year marriage with her second husband, Herbert Rough, until his passing in 2017. She lovingly welcomed his children, Lee Rough and his wife Kim as well as Lisa Weisser, along with Lisa’s children, Ashley and Chase, into her heart. Together, Fern and Herb traveled the world—exploring Alaska, Japan, Italy, England, Austria, and France—collecting memories along the way.

Fern’s brothers, Mark and his wife Janine, and Marty and his wife Debbie, were lifelong companions and dear friends, and her nieces and nephews were like her own. She cherished her family above all else, not only raising her children but helping to raise her grandchildren, always remaining deeply involved in their lives.

Fern had a gift for making others feel cherished. Her warmth filled every room she entered, and her generosity was only matched by her glamorous style. With her oversized sunglasses, statement earrings, and perfectly manicured long nails, she carried herself with timeless grace reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn. Yet beneath the glamour was a woman who gave selflessly, listened intently, and loved fiercely.

She delighted in life’s simple joys—watching movies, reading books, and, most of all, spending time with her family. To her children and grandchildren, she was not only Mom or Mema but also a guiding light, cheerleader, and best friend.

Fern’s Jewish heritage was important in her life, with many holidays were celebrated in her home and traditions passed down lovingly through generations.

Her warmth, humor, and elegance will remain a lasting legacy. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.

Services will be held at Star of David Memorial Gardens in Tamarac on Tuesday, September 16th, 2025 at 11:45, followed by a graveside service at Mount Nebo Cemetery in Miami at 1:45.. Shiva will be observed at Fern's late residence from 4pm to 7pm, and again the following day from 2pm to 7pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Fern’s memory to St. Jude’s, a cause close to her heart.