Anita Roll

Thousand Oaks - Anita Roll, beloved mother, grandmother, dedicated educator and lifelong student, passed away on September 21, 2025 at the age of 92, surrounded by family. She is survived by her children, Alan Roll and Shari Roll, her treasured grandchildren, Michelle, Alicia, Rachel and Nathan, and her brother Leonard.

Anita was born in Jersey City, NJ to Benjamin and Frieda Glotzer. The family moved to Brooklyn during her formative years. She attended Brooklyn College, where she met her future husband, Guy Roll, and completed her bachelor's degree with a major in French. They married in 1952, while Guy completed his military service at Fort Dix, NJ. In 1959, they settled in Wantagh, NY with their two young children. She embraced her role as a wife in an equal partnership that spanned 46 years.

Anita was a devoted, patient and fully present mother. She treasured times spent with her children experiencing new places and perspectives. She loved engaging in conversations on a wide range of subjects, including philosophy, religion, literature, and history, as well as personal topics which focused on friendship, empathy and compassion. She rejoiced as her children became parents and cherished the relationship she formed with each of her four grandchildren.

Anita continued her studies at Hofstra University, earning her master's degree and embarking on a long and successful teaching career at Wantagh Elementary School. Many of her students still recall the days of reciting multiplication tables set to unique rhythms, taking daily, ungraded 'quickie quizzes," and both studying and creating poetry and prose.

She loved to travel with family and friends. She and Guy visited many parts of Europe, Israel, South America and Asia, and brought their children on some of these adventures. After Guy's passing, she continued her travel with her children, grandchildren and close friends.

Anita was a strong supporter of the State of Israel. Despite living in the US during the Holocaust, she was acutely aware and profoundly affected by the atrocities suffered by her European relatives and the Jewish community at large. She maintained a strong connection to her Jewish faith throughout her life.

She loved to learn. She was among the first students to enroll in the newly-established Osher Lifelong Learning program at California State University - Channel Islands, where she enjoyed a close community of friends. She was also an active member of the local American Association of University Women (AAUW), facilitating book groups and supporting scholarships for young women. Throughout her time in Camarillo and while still living in Wantagh, she enjoyed rich friendships through playing bridge and earned the rank of Life Master.

Anita and Guy moved from NY to Camarillo, CA in 1993 to be closer to their children and grandchildren. She remained in their beloved Camarillo home until her health and care needs necessitated a move to assisted living. She enjoyed frequent visits from her family and many local friends, including celebrating birthdays and holidays together.

Anita leaves a legacy of love, learning and respect for all perspectives. A private burial was held at Sinai Memorial Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Make-A-Wish Foundation, Alzheimer's Association, AAUW or a charity of your choice.