Hazel Sandra Greenberg

Hazel Sandra Greenberg, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2025, just two days shy of her 95th birthday. Born on March 11, 1930, in Brooklyn, NY, Hazel was the cherished daughter of David and Helen Levine and spent her early years surrounded by the vibrant energy of the city she loved and called home her entire life.

A proud graduate of Erasmus Hall High School, Hazel continued her education at New York University, earning her undergraduate degree, and went on to receive her master’s degree from Hunter College. Her passion for art and education led to a long and fulfilling career as an elementary art teacher in the Pearl River, NY Public School District and later the Park Ridge, NJ Public School District. Through her creativity and warmth, she inspired countless students, helping them see the world through a more colorful and imaginative lens.

Hazel married the love of her life, Erwin Greenberg, in 1951, and together they built a beautiful life. They lived in Brooklyn until 1962 when they moved to Spring Valley, NY, where they raised their three daughters — Alissa Pam, Darcy Jan, and Evan Leigh. Hazel’s love for her family knew no bounds, and her greatest joy was found in the time spent with them. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always taking an active interest in their lives and celebrating their every achievement.

A true New Yorker through and through, Hazel found beauty and inspiration in the city’s art and culture. She was a frequent visitor to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Frick Collection, and the Guggenheim, where she found endless joy and reflection. She was also a devoted animal lover, sharing her home and heart with many beloved pets throughout her life.

Hazel was preceded in death by her parents, David and Helen Levine; her brother, Alan Gerard; her daughter, Darcy Heagy; and her son-in-law, Steven Milligram. She is survived by her loving husband of 74 years, Erwin Greenberg; her daughters Alissa Bogorad (David Bogorad) and Evan Milligram; her son-in-law David Heagy; her grandchildren Arielle Bogorad (Lucas Pitz), Alexandra Coleman (Michael Coleman), Caitlin Anderson (Ryan Albano), Kyle Smith (Maggie Lynn Smith), and Ronnie Gerard; her great-grandchildren Stella Pitz, Aiden Coleman, Zoey Coleman, Liam Albano, and Quinn Albano.

Hazel’s kindness, creativity, and love will be dearly missed and forever remembered. Her memory will live on in the art she created, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave so freely.

A private family service will be held in her honor. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Ovarian Cancer Society.