
Born on March 13, 1927, in New York City, Myra was the beloved daughter of Sadie and Morris Wattenberg. She was one of four siblings and shared a deep, loving bond with her three brothers, Philip, Larry, and Walter, who predeceased her.
Myra met the love of her life, Ernest Herwitz, in 1946 in the Catskills Mountains. They married on December 12, 1948, and built their life together in Rego Park before moving to Forest Hills, New York, in 1966. Together, they raised three children: Gayle, Lynn and Gary, who survive her and will cherish her memory forever.
A talented homemaker and devoted mother, Myra was the embodiment of elegance and positivity. Known for her impeccable style, she was always dressed to the nines, exuding class and grace, much like a movie star. Her warmth and charm made her “the hostess with the mostest,” delighting family and friends with her exceptional cooking and vibrant personality. After the passing of her own mother, Myra became the family matriarch, bringing everyone together every Sunday for cherished dinners and family time.
Myra was also deeply committed to charitable work. As president of the Young Women’s League supporting cerebral palsy, she passionately engaged in fundraising and advocacy for over a decade, forming lifelong friendships along the way.
She lived by the motto “attitude is everything,” radiating optimism and often breaking into song, her favorite being “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” from Gypsy. Her loving nature left its mark—literally—with red lipstick kisses on all those she held dear.
After Ernest’s passing in 1988, Myra reconnected with a childhood friend, Marvin Kahn, and they married in 1994. They enjoyed life in Manhattan before retiring to Boynton Beach, Florida, where Myra embraced the joys of golf, canasta, and the social amenities of Florida living. In 2022, she relocated to New Jersey to be closer to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Myra is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, all of whom adored her.
Myra’s life was a testament to the values of family, kindness, and resilience. She leaves behind a legacy of love, positivity, and cherished memories that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
A graveside service for Myra will be held Friday, January 10, 2025 from 1:15 PM to 2:00 PM at Knollwood Park Cemetery, 57-80 Cooper Ave, New York, NY 11385.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Myra’s honor to United Cerebral Palsy or Planned Parenthood.
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