Arlene Manheimer

1927 - 2026

Arlene Fima Jacovitz-Manheimer, 98, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026. Born in New York City on December 16, 1927 to Robert and Elsie Vigdor, she went on to graduate from Jamaica High School, and received her AA degree from New York University. In 1947 she married Norman Jacovitz. They lived in Long Beach, Long Island until 1962. Arlene and Norman had three children: Gill Freeman (Dennis Leaton), Nanette Bergman (Mark) and Jay Jacovitz (Lisa).

In 1963 the family moved to Norwalk, Connecticut, where Arlene became active in Beth-El Synagogue Sisterhood and served two terms as President. She also served as President of the Organization for Rehabilitation and Training (ORT). Her husband Norman passed away in 1975 after a long illness. In 1987, Arlene married Seymour Manheimer and moved to New London, Connecticut where she again became active in the synagogue, managing its gift shop. In addition, she served as the New London Hadassah Chapter's President for several years.

After the death of her second husband, Seymour, Arlene moved to Aventura, Florida in 2010 to be close to her daughter Gill, where she resided until her passing. She enjoyed a long and productive life, remaining largely independent until the very end. In addition to her three children, Arlene is survived by her grandson Robert and great grandson Weston.

Special thanks for their care of Arlene during her last years to Dr. Eugenio Bricio, Dr. Mark Artschuler, Gaynel Keys, Gilda Cupid, Marcia McIntosh and the staff at the Vi Care Center. A graveside service was held at Mt. Lebanon Cemetery in Queens NY. In memory of Arlene donations may be made to Hadassah, the Humane Society of Miami Dade or any animal rescue charity.