Edith Sara Morris Frishtick

Richmond, Va. — Edith Sara Morris Frishtick, 89, formally of New York City, passed away on Saturday, March 19, 2016. Edith was born on Aug. 14, 1926, the daughter of Jennie and Victor Morris. She was predeceased by her parents; her sister, Ethel Goodman; and brother, Aaron Morris. Edith is the widow of Kenneth, her beloved husband of 67 years. She is survived by her children, Risa Levine and her husband, Jay of Richmond, Julia Frishtick and her husband, Steven Butnik of Richmond, and Jonathan Frishtick and his wife, Holly Glick of Norwich, Vt. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Victoria Green and her husband John, Daniel Levine and his wife Talia, Kevin Butnik and his wife Julie Khabinsky, Kate Klug and her husband Michael, Beryl Frishtick, and Jennie Frishtick; and her great-grandchildren Eva Green, Asher Green, Gabriel Levine and Toby Levine.

Undaunted optimism, determination, a love of people and a joyous spirit were Edith’s hallmark. Edith was an inspiration to her family, her community and her students. At the age of 36, while raising three children, she completed her college education at Queens College (City University of New York) and started the career of her dreams, teaching for 25 years at P.S. 139, Queens, New York City. While teaching, she attained her Master’s Degree and as well as 30 credits beyond. Edith taught first and second grades and then science and computer programming to her elementary school students. Edith was so loved by her students, parents and faculty that she was chapter chairperson of her teachers’ union and for a period of time was simultaneously the school’s Acting Principal.

Edith and Ken moved to Richmond, where she continued to teach, 24 years ago to be close to their Richmond children and grandchildren. She was committed to serving and helping people. She headed the social action committee at her synagogue, The Utopia Jewish Center in New York. Edith was engaged in the Richmond community as President of Hadassah and volunteered for the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond. Edith was an avid reader of books and read the New York Times in depth daily. She was an active participant in The Audubon Society, Elementary School Science Association and the Jewish Women’s Club (Richmond). Edith loved to travel and had a lifelong love of the theater. She was a passionate supporter of Hillary Clinton. Above all, Edith was happiest when surrounded by her family. She made holidays, birthdays and family celebrations festive and joyous.

The family will always be grateful for the compassionate professional care provided by the staff of Parkside Assisted Living Facility (Beth Sholom). Several exceptional members of the staff developed an unbreakable bond with Edith, which will long survive her passing. For many years, Dr. Roger Cappello and dedicated nurse, Brenda Smith, were a constant source of support. Edith’s personal caregivers, Lori Daley and Afua Manu, gave her unconditional love and exceptional care.

Memorial contributions may be made to a fund being established in memory of Edith and Kenneth Frishtick for staff members of Beth Sholom Lifecare Community/Parkside who wish to pursue further education in the health care professions. Donations may be sent to Beth Sholom Lifecare Community/Parkside, 1550 John Rolfe Parkway, Richmond, VA 23238. Please enter “Frishtick Education Fund” in the memo line of the check.