Marissa Hope Pollak Goldsmith

Marissa Hope Pollak Goldsmith

Marissa Goldsmith Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on May 15, 2005.
MARISSA HOPE POLLAK GOLDSMITH fought diligently against breast cancer, yet passed away Friday, May 13th 2005. Marissa is proudly, honorably and lovingly survived by her parents Muriel and Martin Pollak of Sunrise, Florida, her three children, Jonathan Isaac Goldsmith, Bradley David Goldsmith, and Jennifer Beth Goldsmith, their father Alan Goldsmith, and her loving family, friends, students and peers. Marissa was born on October 30, 1957 in North Miami Beach, Florida. She graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish in 1979, moving to Houston that year. She later received her teaching certificate at Houston Baptist University in 1996. Marissa began her teaching career at the Cliffwood School in 1990, and has since taught and inspired at Windsor Village Elementary School and Westbury High School, where she has been for the past 12 years. She served as the chairperson for the Foreign Languages Department at Westbury, and received Teacher of the Year in 2001. Marissa always went far beyond just teaching in the classroom, as she was a leader, a friend, and truly an angel to all. Marissa contributed to the community in so many other ways as well: a lively baseball-mom in the Bellaire Baseball Booster Club, an assistant coach for the Westbury High School women's soccer team, a Cub Scouts den leader for Pack 806, and formerly an active member of the Brith Shalom Sisterhood. Funeral Services will be held Sunday May 15, 2005 at 3:00 P.M. in the sanctuary of Congregation Brith Shalom, 4610 Bellaire Blvd, with Rabbi Daniel Horwitz officiating, with interment following at Emanu El Memorial Park, 8341 Bissonnet. A fund has been set up in the name of the Goldsmith children at Region's Bank, 5005 Woodway in Houston. (Contact Sr. VP Joseph Proler - (713) 426-7150.).

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Sign Marissa Goldsmith's Guest Book

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July 10, 2009

Someone posted to the memorial.

July 6, 2009

Leah Caplan posted to the memorial.

September 27, 2006

Julia Rosales posted to the memorial.

July 10, 2009

Once again, as a former colleague of Ms. Goldsmith, I will always remember how her face lit up whenever she spoke about her children; they were the joy of her life. May God continue to bless and keep her children. RIP Ms. Goldsmith.

S. Brown

Leah Caplan

July 6, 2009

Marissa is missed today, tomorrow, always.

Julia Rosales

September 27, 2006

Sra Goldsmith was how she wanted to be called.....I remember the day I saw her I wanted her to be my teacher, and when I finally had her I was happy it was only four of us in our span ap 4 class w had fun we always ejoyed being w her she was the best we always enjoyed fridays we would bring something to eat while we studied span videos....she prepared us perfectly for the ap test and when i found out that she was sick it tore my heart to pieces she wanted to see us walk and much more pass the test i enjoyed her for a year she was not only a teacher to me she was a friend we would all talk about everthing that happened I enjoyed the talk about her 3 children she loved them that all she said and she left to a better place loving them and thinking about them

Kenneth Edwards

September 21, 2006

Ms Goldsmith was one of the best teachers that I have ever had. From the fun times we had in Spanish class to the great days with Spanish Honor Society. My heart is definitely with her children and the rest of the family. I always hear in my head "Kenneth, you are a classy guy"--something she would say to me all of the time. Thank you-Ms Goldsmith for all that you were, are, and always will be to me. Class of 2001

neva benoit

September 6, 2006

Mrs. Goldsmith was a truly great teacher and a wonderful friend, even to her students. She was the best teacher and i continued to seek her knowledge even after i stopped taking classes from her. she will be in my memories forever! you were the BEST Mrs. Goldsmith!!

Miguel Ascencio

August 8, 2006

Mrs. GOldsmith, you were an inspiration to people all over westbury high school and even though you are gone, will will still be in our hearts. Whenever i would get in trouble, I would rememeber you telling my mother of how smart of a son he had and if he would continue in school, he would suceed. Thanks for all the inspiration. You are and will be greatly missed.

Pamella Orgor

May 25, 2006

R.I.P. Ms.Goldsmith

Joshua Johnson

March 28, 2006

You were a wonderful teacher and a bright light. May your family be blessed.

Alex Guia

March 19, 2006

Mrs. Goldsmith you were a great teacher. Even though I would get on your nerves you'd just ask me politely to be quiet or sit still. I had loads of fun in your classroom, and i could even talk to you about anything. Thank you so much for being a wonderful and caring teacher. You have made a tremendous impace on my life as well as others.

Ginika Oparaji

October 9, 2005

Mrs. Goldsmith,

I will miss you dearly. You were such a beautiful person on the inside and out. I was blessed to have you as my teacher just 4 years ago. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. May GOD bless them. I luv you. You were so talented with the gift to touch others. Thank you so much for every talk, every class, & every lesson.

Viki Beckerman (Freinberg)

June 10, 2005

A very sweet friend from NMB. I hope her family knows what a great friend she was in high school to many. Always cheerful and smiling...

Miriam Rabaza-Saunders

May 23, 2005

Ms. Goldsmith was a loving and dedicated teacher and one of the nicest people I have ever had the pleasure to meet. She was my spanish teacher for 3 years at Westbury and I will always remeber her. My deepest condolences go to her family and all those who have loved her over the years. We were blessed to have known her and as is too often the case lost her far to soon.

Elodia Flores Hough

May 23, 2005

I wish to extend my condolences to the Goldsmith family. You are in my thoughts and in my prayers.



I remember Marissa as an outstanding teacher who was always available for her students. She was a caring, dedicated teacher who touched the lives of so many students and colleagues. As principal of Westbury High School, I remember Marissa as one of those teachers who was always there to support Westbury High School.



Marissa will be greatly missed by all of us whose lives she has touched....que en paz descanse...

Peggy Christman

May 22, 2005

Johno, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My deepest condolences to you and your family.

Melissa Padilla

May 20, 2005

Mrs. Goldsmith was a one of a kind person who brought the love of spanish to all she taught. She always went above and beyond to help when ever need. She will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to all her family and friends.

Barbara (Stein) Eisenbaum

May 20, 2005

I was so saddened to hear about Marissa's passing. I have fond memories of her from Adath Yeshurun, Sabal Palm, J.F.K. and North Miami Beach High School. Our paths crossed a few times in Houston. I wish it could have been more often because she was a wonderful, sweet person. She will be missed!!!!

Jennifer, Mom, Bradley, and John-o at Jason's Bar-Mitzvah

May 20, 2005

Van Austell

May 20, 2005

Marissa was a joy to be around and her students loved her. I have many fond memories of her while I was secretary at Westbury High School. She was always willing to pitch in and help me with the "Rowdy Rebels." We had many good times together.



Jennifer, I will be praying for you and your brothers.

Rita Widom Swichkow

May 19, 2005

Muriel and Marty, it is with great sadness that I have learned of the death of your cherished Marissa. I have so many fond memories of Marissa and Ilisa playing together as children. Having known Marissa I'm sure her three children are a loving legacy that will bring you the joy that Marissa always did. To you and to them my deepest sympathy. Rita

Mackenzie Conine

May 18, 2005

Jen,I never knew your mother but I saw the product of her work and it was wonderful! You spoke of her so fondly and through you I knew she had to be an amazing woman who touched so many lives. She will be missed by many and my prayers are with you and your family. love Mackenzie

Loretta Levi

May 18, 2005

As a co-worker, Marissa was always a role model. She was loving yet professional and always had a sense of humor. I can only imagine what her family and students are going through in such a difficult loss. My heart goes out to all of you.

Ashlei Armet

May 18, 2005

Ms. Goldsmith was a wonderful teacher and friend. She will be missed by so many! My prayers are with her family.

Lauren Sheridan

May 18, 2005

Mrs. Goldsmith was truly one from a rare breed of teachers - one who cared about each of her students and wanted to see them succeed. She was my Spanish teacher for three years while I attended Westbury and then a friend and colleague when I taught at Westbury for four years. My thoughts and prayers are with her children and family. Mrs. Goldsmith will be greatly missed by many.

Batya Boxt

May 18, 2005

Mrs. Goldsmith was a gift to us all. Heaven is as lucky to be blessed with her presence as we were to have her as our teacher, mentor and friend...she will be greatly missed by so many.

Tia Magoulas

May 18, 2005

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Goldsmith family. Mrs. Goldsmith was a wonderful teacher and mentor. She will be greatly missed!

Ilisa Widom Hoffman

May 18, 2005

I was so deeply saddened to read about Marissa's death. She was my very first friend. We were best friends in North Miami Beach from about age 2 until I moved away in 1969(age 12--7th grade). I will always remember Marissa. She was always sweet and kind and so very pretty. Those thoughts of her have always remained with me-- over 36 years later! I also fondly remember (and send my deepest condolences) to her parents and grandparents(who lived with her). I pray that her memory brings all of you comfort and peace. I will never forget my very first best friend, Marissa --- I will always treasure the memories I have of us together. With my deepest sympathy. Ilisa

Melanie Pierre

May 17, 2005

I will miss you Ms. Goldsmith.. You are a blessing to my life. You are the one who taught me how to speak a second language. I love you!!!

Debbie & Chad Harvey

May 17, 2005

Marissa & her family were among the 1st friends we had when we married & moved to Houston in 1980. We moved away in 1989, but we have wonderful memories of that very happy time in our lives. We are very sorry for your loss and thank all her friends for being there for her all these years.

Paige Popkin

May 17, 2005

Mrs. Goldsmith was one of those rare teachers that actually cared about her students. And her students cared about her. She was fun-loving and a friend to all. She always talked about her children with so much pride and love. She was a woman so full of love and life and she will be greatly missed. My prayers go out to her children. Thank you Mrs. Goldsmith for all of your many gifts.

All my love,

Paige Popkin

Fran Vaupen

May 17, 2005

A large piece of my heart was taken away when Marissa passed away.Our friendship spanned over 36 years and I will never forget all the fun times we had together as kids. A friendship like this is so rare, and one which I truly treasured. Somehow, life will never be the same. She left behind 3 amazing children. They have a long road ahead of them, but they will always have my love and support!

Phyllis Hoffman

May 17, 2005

Sweet Marissa, You were so loved, so dear to your family, your friends and the students you touched and taught. Our family is diminished without your presence. We will always remember you. Phyllis, Tim, Tracy, Troy and Mark

Courtney Armet

May 17, 2005

I was fortunate enough to have Mrs. Goldmsith as an extraordinary teacher for 4 years of Spanish, and even more fortunate to have her as an amazing mentor & friend for the years @ Westbury. I will forever cherish the laughs, the "gossip" and the wonderful advice she gave to me & a host of other students. She left such an indelible mark on my life and I will forever be grateful for all she did for me, knowingly and not. And if we deal with her passing as she would want us to, in the midst of tears, we can find laughter. My thoughts & prayers are with her family.

Gary Golub

May 17, 2005

You have enriched the lives of many.

Cindy Abrahams

May 16, 2005

Marissa will be missed by so many people. We met when she first came to Houston and shared many fun times when our children were young. I always admired her compassion and her devotion to her children. The Abrahams family will be there for Johno, Bradley and Jenny. We will miss you, Marissa.

B,Taylor

May 16, 2005

I did not have the honor of knowing Mrs. Goldsmith personally. However I used to pass her in the hallways. We never spoike verbally to eachother but we always smiled at eachother. I never knew why, but for some reason it was special to me. Because no matter what she always had a smile. To the family, I just want to say, you may hurt now, but joy will come soon.

Reginald Miller

May 16, 2005

I will truly miss your smile and the fun you always had . I will never forget you and you will be truly missed .

Claudia Dotson

May 16, 2005

My heart goes out to the Goldsmith family. I had the opportunity to work with Ms. Goldsmith about 3 years ago. I know that she was wonderful to all of the students at Westbury. I had many students tell me that they would miss her when they graduated. I know you will be missed very much.

M. Berkowitz

May 16, 2005

We were all so fortunate to know Marissa and know that she will always be proud of the wonderful legacy she has left--her children, Jonathan, Brad and Jenny. May you and the rest of your family find comfort in your precious memories.

Lynn Smiley

May 16, 2005

My sincerest prayers are with your children and family.

Barbara Neal

May 16, 2005

You are in my prayers. Continue to be strong.

Nadine Ghosn

May 16, 2005

You touched so many lives. You will be greatly missed. May your legacy live on forever.

Sharon Brown

May 16, 2005

Ms. Goldsmith, I can remember how you would sometimes talk about your children and rush off to take care of them. I thought to myself, "She must be a wonderful mother". At the same time, you were concerned about the children at Westbury High School. We will all miss you very much. Your friend and collegue

kametria jones

May 16, 2005

ms goldsmith i just want you to rest in peace. you will always be missed, and you are a loving person. many people can count on a great person like you. you will always be in every body heart at westbury high school. you are in a good place, thats where everybody will want to be. rest in peace!!

Joel Hollis

May 16, 2005

She was my first friend at Westbury.

Susan Baum

May 16, 2005

"It is better to give then receive" was Marissa's motto. Marissa was an inspiration to all. We all can learn by her giving, sharing, and caring. She gave hope, guidance, and love to all who crossed her path. I feel lucky and privileged to have her as a friend. Marissa will always be remembered and loved. XOXOXO Susan

MICHELLE STENNIS

May 16, 2005

A WONDERFUL PERSON.....YOU WILL BE MISSED!

Lois Wheeler

May 16, 2005

Your mother was a wonderful caring person. She demonstrated that everyday. I will miss our "races" that we had periodically every day. She will be remembered for the thoughtfullness, caring, concerned, loving and funny person that she was. Rest in joyful, blissful peace Ms. Goldsmith.

Tiffany Hill

May 16, 2005

I am honored to have worked with Marissa at Westbury High School for the past nine years. My deepest sympathy goes to her children and her family. My prayers are with you all.

Sara Ramos

May 16, 2005

Every one who knew Ms.Goldsmith would agree that she was an extraordinary educator. I remember her smile that was full of happiness which was usually brought upon her face because of Ms.Kamin. She has no idea how much she has impacted everyone's life just her presence made you feel that life brings those people who actually care. To her family: remember that everything happens for a reason, not necessarily a good one but always for God's purpose. Also remember to never base your time on the grounds of eventually because ultimately some people run out of time. I can't say I know exactly what you're going through but I do have an idea. My deepest regards are with all of you at this difficult time.

Berenice De La Cruz

May 16, 2005

To a wounderfull teacher that would always be in our minds and most important it would always be in or hearts as a shine star that God let us have to make our whole world a better place and we always remember her as a lovely and brave women that all she gave us was happines and love. WE LOVE YOU

** We all now have an angel that would always shine and take care of us** WE MISS YOU !

My best condolences to all her family and friends.

Melodie Winston

May 16, 2005

To the Goldsmith Family, Friends, and coworkers:

Marissa was one of God's light. She lit up every room that she entered, even the hallways at Westbury High. She was truly dedicated to all children; her students and all students on campus. I witnessed her nurture students and staff daily as she created positive conclusions to every negative situation. I will miss her kindness and motivational conversations.



Melodie Winston, Westbury High

Sharika King

May 16, 2005

Ms. Goldsmith was a caring and giving person to all that she came in contact with. She is deeply missed.



Mrs. King

abenna achina

May 16, 2005

To the family of Ms. Goldsmith, iam a stundent of ms. goldsmith and i would like to give my deepest sorrows the whole entire family and wish you so many blessings to the daughter i have exprienced this i lost my mother at the age of 13 years old and just to let u know that and u will always have people that will be there for you so dont let this stop you just keep going just think of this as a blessing. and may god be with you and ur family love always

J'Anne Rushing

May 16, 2005

Marissa was a dear friend,and a great support to me at work. She was alway there for me no matter what was going on in her life. She defently put her self last and cared for others way before her self. I will never forget our laughs and joking at lunch and through out the day in emails. I will greatly miss her and the friendship we shared at work and away. Our department will never be the same with out our friend.

Michael Rhodes

May 16, 2005

ms.Goldsmith was the coolist teacher in the world she always had a good relationship with the student's at westbury, she is also a terrific mom and tries her hardest not to get upset i took her my 10th grade year R.I.P Ms.Goldsmith

Norina Olavere

May 16, 2005

She was one of the best "Americans" I have ever come across. As a foreign teacher in the same school, she made me comfortable and welcome. When we went to Seattle, Washington for a CES convention, we shared a room and a bed. She was very conscientious about my comfort over her own. My classroom is just down the hall from her. I will surely miss her passing by early in the morning while I write things on my board and she, on her way to sign in. She was a great person to have had around. May you rest in PEACE, Ms. Goldsmith. I will always be Norina to you.

Jason Chung

May 16, 2005

Miss Goldsmith, you will be dearly missed by me and many others who's life you made an impact on... love always Jason C Chung class of 05"

NOSA OMOREGIE

May 16, 2005

A GOOD AND LOVING COLLEAGUE.MAY YOUR SOUL REST IN PERFECT PEACE. I KNOW YOU ARE IN A BETTER PLACE EVEN AS THE ANGELS OF THE LORD WELCOME YOU HOME.

DEON WILLIAMS

May 16, 2005

YOUR WESTBURY HIGH SCHOOL FAMILY WILL MISS YOU AND WE OFFER OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES.

LaShanda Jackson

May 16, 2005

Marissa will truly be missed by her friends and colleagues. Your family is in our prayers.

Chuck Grawe

May 16, 2005

My condolences to the Goldsmith family. Marissa will be greatly missed by all the teachers and students here at Westbury H.S. I will remember her wit, sense of humor, dedication and positive outlook she had every day.My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Debra Robinson

May 15, 2005

Marissa was born 1957,(-) and she died 2005. Lets' celebrate the dash between the year she was born, and the year she died. The dash symbolizes her happiness, and life on earth with all of us. She loved her children,and there are many friends, and family who loved her. The dash between born and death is forever!! I will be here for her children, as I was here for her children before she passed. Marissa, rest in peace, and may your spirit live on forever in your loved ones heart.

Alyse Vernon

May 15, 2005

Marissa and I have always had a special bond that has lasted for years. We may have not talked about it but, it was known between her and I. We have always cared deeply about each other and our families. I will miss her and that special bond that we have had for years. I will be available to you Jonathan, Bradley and Jennifer for the rest of your lives just as your Mom was for me. Love always, Alyse

L Goldberg

May 15, 2005

We will miss her deeply

Joel & Michelle Fastow

May 15, 2005

With deepest sympathies. The world has lost a truly remarkable and loving person. We grieve along with you.

Your cousins,

Michelle, Joel, Staci, and Steven

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July 10, 2009

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July 6, 2009

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September 27, 2006

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