Fern Kruger

Fern Kruger, born March 15, 1945, in New York, passed away in New Orleans on June 10, 2025 surrounded by love. A lifelong educator, Fern earned a bachelor’s degree from Queens College and a master’s in educational psychology from Hofstra University. She was loved by generations of students whose lives she touched.

Her journey stretched from the New York island to the Redwood forest, to the Gulf Stream waters. She had many meaningful chapters and communities in New York, Vermont, and California where she raised her daughter, was an engaged community member in Alameda, Temple Emanu-El, DKG, and others, and built lifelong friendships. Fern was an artist, natural conversationalist, and spiritual person with strong principles.

In New Orleans, she embraced life fully — through Touro Synagogue, the Jewish Community Center, and the Willow School, as well as the Tulane Women’s Association, her Mardi Gras family, work with Together New Orleans, and the Grannies. She marched to the beat of her own drum with joie de vivre, her spirit a reflection of the city she came to love.

She is survived by her daughter, Amanda Kruger Hill; grandsons, Benjamin and Louis Hill; son-in-law, Graham Hill; and beloved family near and far.

Fern will be remembered as a loving mother and Mimi, a vibrant presence, whose warmth and generosity left a lasting mark.

The memorial service will be held at Touro Synagogue, 4238 St. Charles Avenue, at 2:30pm on Friday, June 13, 2025, and burial was held at Hebrew Rest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Touro Synagogue in her honor.