Elliott Warren Simon

Dr. Elliott Warren Simon

January 12, 1953 – June 8, 2025

Dr. Elliott Warren Simon, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, died peacefully at home, surrounded by family. He was 72.

Born in Mount Vernon, NY, Elliott valued family, education, and connection throughout his life. He met his wife, Judy Rash, in 1971 when they were both freshmen in college, and they remained devoted partners for more than five decades, married for 45 years. He earned his bachelor's degree in psychology from Carnegie Mellon University in 1975, followed by a master's degree in 1976 and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology in 1979, both from Emory University. He completed a postdoctoral program at Penn State University and began a lifelong career working with individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities - work that was a passion.

Elliott began his career at Embreeville Center and then joined Elwyn, Inc., one of the oldest and largest organizations supporting people with disabilities. He served for many years as Executive Director of Research and Health Services, where he championed interdisciplinary approaches to care, mentored numerous doctoral students, and led efforts to preserve the organization's extensive historical archives. His deep interest in the history of disability and institutional care also led him to serve on the board of the Pennhurst Memorial and Preservation Alliance. In recognition of his lasting impact, Elwyn will name its library and archive in his honor: the forthcoming Dr. Elliott Simon Library and Historical Archive at Elwyn will serve as a testament to his vision and leadership.

Elliott's intellectual curiosity and zest for life extended far beyond his career. A lifelong lover of music, he contributed articles and reviews to The New York City Jazz Record, where he celebrated musicians with his signature enthusiasm and insight. A devoted Yankees fan, Elliott rarely missed a game and amassed an extensive memorabilia collection.

After retiring in 2018, Elliott and Judy moved near Mount Vernon, VA to be closer to their granddaughter, Eleanor. Retirement brought time for new joys: playing pickleball, statistics consulting for Ohio University, curating his music, sports, and dishware collections, and most of all, being present for Eleanor - "his favorite." Their bond brought him immeasurable joy, and he delighted in spending time with her.

Elliott is remembered by all who knew him for his warmth, humor, calm demeanor, and deeply insightful nature. He leaves behind a legacy of profound impact: through the lives of the individuals and families he served, the students he mentored, the musicians he uplifted, and the countless friends and loved ones drawn to his spirit.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Judith Rash; daughters Jil (Thomas Shupe) and Janet (Kristine Ensign); granddaughter Eleanor; and cousins Irwin, Mark, Wendy, and Paul.

Burial will be at Mount Eden Cemetery in Valhalla, NY on June 11, 2025, at 12pm (20 Commerce St, Hawthorne, NY 10532). In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Elwyn Inc. (https://www.elwyn.org/support-elwyn/donate-now) to support the endowment and naming of The Dr. Elliott Simon Library and Historical Archive at Elwyn. Please note "Dr. Elliott Simon Fund" in the dedication line.