Lois Lautenberg passed peacefully surrounded by her children on the evening of May 30, 2020. She was 88 years old. Lois grew up in South Orange, NJ. The daughter of Herman and Ann Levenson and sister to Mal, she later moved to Paterson with her husband, Frank Lautenberg. In 1967, the Lautenberg family moved to Montclair, NJ. Lois and her family lived in Montclair until 2007 when Lois moved to West Orange, NJ. She is survived by her four children, Ellen, Nan, Lisa and Josh and 10 grandchildren.
Lois was well known for her philanthropic endeavors and her love of the Jewish community. Lois was regularly recognized for her many years of volunteerism and giving back. Lois was also passionate in her support of film, theater, the arts and a wide range of cultural activities and philanthropies.
Lois served in many capacities within the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest, NJ. She was a past Campaign Chair and President of Women’s Philanthropy, a Lifetime Member of the Women's Philanthropy Board and a longtime member of the Federation’s Board of Trustees. She was passionate about the work of Federation, loved being a Lion of Judah and believed in the legacy of endowing a Perpetual Annual Campaign gift to ensure a strong and vibrant Jewish future. Lois was instrumental in crucial fundraising efforts at Greater MetroWest – locally, in Israel and around the world. The Lautenberg name stands proudly on buildings, meeting rooms and hallways in the Greater MetroWest community and in Israel.
Lois was a past co-chair of the Holocaust Council and held leadership roles at the JCC of MetroWest, JESPY House, Jewish Services for the Developmentally Disabled and the Sister Rose Thering Fund for Education in Jewish-Christian Studies at Seton Hall University.
Lois was a role model and inspiration to all who knew her.
Lois was an incredibly devoted mother. She focused much of her energy on the wellbeing of her children and grandchildren. She always put her family’s and her community’s best interests ahead of her own. She was a selfless advocate for those in need.
A graveside service was held June 1 with immediate family members in attendance.
Memorial contributions can be made to a fund in Lois’ name at the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest.
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