Ursula N. Schiff

Ursula is survived by her loving sons David (Tiphanie) and Robert (Carol), five grandchildren - Michael, Sarah (Christian), Jessica, Benjamin and Gregory, and two great grandchildren - Paige and Jacob. Ursula was predeceased by her beloved husband of 63 years, Herbert G. Schiff, Jr., and her parents, Walter and Margarethe Neuhaus.

Ursula was born in Göttingen, Germany. She immigrated to the United States with her parents in 1937, on one of the last emigration vessels permitted by the German authorities, the RMS Georgic. In 1939, Ursula and her parents relocated from New York City to Fort Edward, NY.

Ursula graduated from Ft. Edward High School before earning her teaching degree from the New York State College for Teachers at SUNY Albany, NY. During her time at college, she met the love of her life, Herbert G. Schiff, Jr., who was embarking on his career at General Electric in Schenectady, NY. Ursula followed her passion for education, dedicating her professional career to teaching high school English and German in Albany and Marblehead, MA, where she inspired countless students with her love of literature and language.

Ursula and Herbert were married on October 8, 1950, in Albany. In 1955, they moved to Swampscott, MA, where they raised their family before returning to Schenectady, in 1978. They retired to Sarasota, in 1985. Ursula was known for her warmth, lively personality, and the creatively themed dinner parties she loved to host in each community she called home.

Wherever they lived, Ursula and Herbert were active members of their neighborhood and temple communities. They especially enjoyed the many close friendships they made as members of the congregations at Temple Emanu-El in Marblehead and Temple Emanu-El in Sarasota.

Their golden years were filled with adventure and cultural enrichment. Ursula and Herbert embarked on over 25 cruises and traveled throughout Europe and parts of the Middle East. Ursula loved theatre, opera, and classical music. Ursula and Herbert volunteered at Sarasota’s Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall where they enjoyed attending opera and symphony performances.

In 2003, Ursula and Herbert made the fortuitous decision to move into the newly opened Glenridge CCRC. They were “early settlers” being two of the original residents of this exceptional community. Ursula and Herbert continued their active lifestyle at The Glenridge, contributing to the community’s early success with their volunteer activities and responsibilities. Ursula loved The Glenridge theatre, taking part in several performances and volunteering as its usher scheduler. Additionally, Ursula proudly volunteered as a Glenridge Ambassador promoting the community to retirees interested in moving there.

Ursula’s affection for animals was well-known; she and Herbert were often seen strolling around The Glenridge with one of their four-legged companions. Ursula took full advantage of The Glenridge amenities including the fitness center where she enjoyed watching musical programs while pedaling away on the exercise bike. She lived a healthy lifestyle that kept her active and engaged throughout her life. She also had a keen eye for fashion and took great care in her appearance, always dressing with style and attention to detail.

Ursula moved to the Highlands assisted living facility in 2015 and then to the Carroll Center skilled nursing facility in early 2022. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Carroll Center staff, aides, and nurses whose loving care and compassion buoyed Ursula in her final years. We are forever grateful.

Ursula lived a truly wonderful and fulfilled life, marked by the countless friends she made, especially during her years at the Glenridge. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched – with kindness, intellect and wit.

A memorial service will be held at the Sarasota National Cemetery on July 14 at 10:00am followed by a reception at The Glenridge on Palmer Ranch from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.

Donations in Ursula’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice.