Ellene R Horowitz

Ellene Horowitz [Raley], age 96, of Silver Spring, MD, passed away peacefully in her home on October 5, 2023, after a long, full, and loving life. Born in Andalusia, Alabama, and a resident of Silver Spring for over 70 years, for Ellie family always came first. Ellene was predeceased by her husband, Herbert D. Horowitz, after 42 years of marriage, and by her daughter, Ruth Sacks [Horowitz]. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Joseph Horowitz and Sara Deutsch, of Yonkers, NY, and by four grandchildren (Harriet, Julia, Rachel and Jake), nine great-grandchildren, her devoted and beloved caregiver, Lucy, nieces and nephews from her Alabama birthplace, and friends.

In addition to family, Ellene fully embraced her Jewish faith, and serving others in her community. She converted to Judaism shortly after her 1945 marriage to her beloved Herbie, and their re-location to Maryland. They were one of the founding families of Temple Israel (initially named the Langley Hebrew Congregation, and now merged with Tikvat Israel of Rockville), where she enjoyed singing in the choir, and serving in the Sisterhood leadership. Subsequently, she and her daughter Ruth became long-time members of Har-Tzeon—Agudath Achim Congregation. She was a dedicated homemaker and caregiver across 65 years, providing love, care and attention for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Across those decades, life’s circumstances led to various members from all three generations being welcomed into her home, to live with her for as long as they needed.

She also valued education, learning and libraries. Throughout her children’s school years, she volunteered in the libraries of their various Montgomery County schools. After they left home for college, she was able to become a paid employee at the library of the University of Maryland for over twenty years.

Ellene continuously resided in her home since 1961. She has been described by many as having a wonderful sense of humor, fiercely independent, but always loving. In her final months, home hospice with the Jewish Social Service Agency (JSSA), provided great comfort and assistance to her and to Lucy. She was able to remain in her home until the very end.

The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, October 10th, at 12:00 Noon at Mount Lebanon Cemetery, 9500 Riggs Road, Hyattsville, MD. 20783. Friends, family and mourners are invited to the family home in Silver Spring after the service for the opportunity to reminisce, remember, and share a condolence meal.

In lieu of flowers or other tangible signs of care and concern, the family requests that contributions in honor or memory of Ellene Horowitz be made to either her synagogue (htaa.org), the hospice agency (jssa.org), or the charity of your choice that is dedicated to children’s health or education.

In lieu of formal shiva, mourners are encouraged to remember Ellene in their own individual manner. The synagogue offers services by Zoom to members and non-members alike.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hinesrinaldifuneralhome.com for the Horowitz family.