Rhoda H. Lemkin

Rhoda Heller Lemkin, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 5, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was 87. Born in New Haven, Connecticut, on June 30, 1938, Rhoda was the oldest of two children. In 1960, she married her loving husband, Edward Lemkin, and together they built a marriage of 65 years. Rhoda and Edward raised their five children first in New Haven and later in Woodbridge, where they built a home in 1978 that became the center of countless family gatherings, celebrations, and warm memories. She is survived by her children Jeffrey Lemkin (Woodreen), Jim Lemkin (Diane), Jonathan Lemkin (Nancy), Gayle Alpert (Jay), and Carolyn Schapiro (Jeff). She leaves behind 9 treasured grandchildren, her sister Linda Greengas, beloved cousin Pam Powell, many nieces and nephews, and a circle of lifelong friends who loved her dearly. To her cherished friends, she was affectionately known as "Dodie." A natural caregiver, Rhoda was not only a devoted mother to her own children but also a "second full-time mother" to many others. Her home was always open, filled with warmth, compassion, and generosity. Education and teaching were at the heart of her life. Rhoda began her career as an elementary school teacher after graduating from Danbury State College (now Western Connecticut State University). Later, she returned to school and earned her Master's in Library Science from Southern Connecticut State University. She worked for 13 years as a Reference Librarian at the Woodbridge Town Library, where she retired. Afterward, she returned to the classroom as a Reading Aide at Peck Place Elementary School in Orange, where she continued to inspire and support young learners. Rhoda lived a life enriched by her love of reading, the arts, and travel. She found joy in the energy of New York City, the beauty of Boston, and the cherished summers she spent with her family in Hull, Massachusetts. She was an enthusiastic theatergoer, particularly fond of Broadway shows, and delighted in sharing her love of the arts with those around her. Her warmth and generosity extended far beyond her family. Rhoda was known for her ability to make every person feel seen and cared for. She never missed a birthday, anniversary, or special occasion, always sending a thoughtful card or gift that perfectly captured her way with words. Holidays at her home were filled with laughter, love, and her remarkable ability to bring people together. Rhoda was a loyal friend, a devoted wife, a loving mother, a doting grandmother, a steadfast sister, and a cousin who held family bonds close to her heart. Her home was her sanctuary, and in her final months, she found peace and comfort in returning there, surrounded by the love of her family and the memories of a life well lived. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of kindness, compassion, and love will continue to live on in her family and the many lives she touched. The family is extremely and beyond grateful for Doris McMillan, Rhoda's aide, who cared for her with extraordinary compassion during the past seven months. They became the best of friends, and Rhoda loved her deeply. Funeral services will be held at Beth El Memorial Park, 55 Warner St. Hamden, CT. on Momday morning Sept. 8th at 11:00. The Robert E. Shure & Son Funeral Home, New Haven is in care of Arrangements. The family will be receiving guests at there home immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations made in memory of Rhoda Lemkin may be sent to the Woodbridge Town Library, Congregation Beth El-Keser Israel, or a charity of your choice. to sgn an online registry book or to leave a message of condolence, please visit, www.shurefuneralhome.com.