Carla Rae Plotkin

Carla Rae Plotkin, 77, of Rockleigh, New Jersey, died on March 20, 2024.

Carla was a special woman who was much admired by everyone she met. Her larger than life personality and undeniable magnetism drew so many to her. Her quick-wittedness and infectious laugh will never be forgotten.

She had an incredibly loving and generous heart. She treated everyone with utmost respect and kindness. Her friendliness and gregariousness left an everlasting impression on those who were fortunate enough to come into her path.

Carla’s zest for life, strong will, and feistiness were undeniable. Her relentless determination and perseverance were unmatched. Her love of laughter and ability to find humor in things carried her through even the most difficult times.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Shana Plotkin-Bricks, her devoted brother Mel Friedman, and her kind-hearted sister-in-law Linda Friedman.

She is also survived by her three loving grandchildren, Isabella, Sammy, and Hannah, whom she adored very much. They truly were the apple of her eye.

She was predeceased by her husband, Seymour Banchik, her sister-in-laws Anne Pepe and Sally Banchik, her parents Irving and Edith (Levites) Friedman, and her great-grandparents Abraham and Sarah Levites.

Carla was born on February 17, 1947 in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up, she enjoyed sports, especially punch ball, stick ball and softball. She loved all different genres of music and dancing. She enjoyed shopping and fashion. She was a collector of vintage Japanese cloisonné. She was a donor to many children’s and animal charities. In her later years, she enjoyed watching the food network, nature programs, and old classic movies. Her favorite pastime was being with her grandchildren.

She continuously entertained everyone around her with comedic stories and countless memories.

She graduated from Jersey City State College, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education. Her working life included elementary school teaching, owning a delicatessen and creating elaborate catering arrangements, and working as a sales representative for a legal publishing company.

Carla’s selflessness and devotion to her family will always be remembered. She was the light in their lives and her undying love will continue to guide them.

She will be greatly missed forever and always by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her, but will never, ever be forgotten.

Very few people have influenced the lives of others the way she did. The world will not be the same without Carla.

May her soul forever be at peace.

“A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.” – Maya Angelou

A funeral service for Carla will be held Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at 11:30 AM at Gutterman and Musicant Jewish Funeral Directors, 402 Park Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601.

Following the funeral service will be an interment at Cedar Park Cemetery, 735 Forest Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652.