Obituary of Libby Gersowitz

Libby (Levine) Gersowitz , 97, a lifelong Albany resident and resident of Highland Beach, Fla. on August 8, 2014 at home in Albany. Libby was born and raised in Albany's South End and was graduated from Philip Schuyler High School. Libby worked in her family's news store and, among other duties, she translated Yiddish to English for the customers. She was a World War II bride and traveled with her newlywed husband, Ruben as he was stationed in various locales for basic training before he headed off to join the European campaign. Libby also worked at her husband's family run business, Williams Department Store, before she took a hiatus to raise 4 children. In the 1970's, Libby returned to the work force as a sales associate at Penny's Department Store in Latham and then at the NYS Higher Education Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) where she helped college students apply for financial aid. Thereafter, Libby continued to enjoy her time working with college students at the SUNY at Albany library. Libby was an active member and recording secretary of the UOTS United Order True Sisters, Abigail #3, a philanthropic organization devoted to those battling breast cancer. In addition to enjoying her work with young people, Libby's joys were her husband, Ruben Gersowitz, who pre-deceased her; her son, Stephen (Helena) of New York City; daughter, Mardi Dana of Massachusetts; daughter, Sandra of Albany; and son, Edward of New York City. She is also survived by grandchildren Erica (Kagiso), Elliott (Sarah) of New York City, Natalie Malatz (David) of Arizona and Nathan Dana of Israel; and by her great granddaughter, Fiona Gersowitz and by many nieces and nephews. The Family wishes to thank Joanne Quant and Alisia Roberts for their devoted care. Funeral service will be held on Monday, August 11 at 11:00 a.m. at the Levine Memorial Chapel, 649 Washington Avenue Albany, N.Y. Interment will following in the Independent Benevolent Cemetery, Guilderland, N.Y. A period of mourning will be observed at 235 Tampa Avenue, Albany on Monday, August 11 from 1-4pm and on Tuesday, August 12 from 4-7pm. In lieu of flowers, donations, by those who wish, may be made to the National Jewish Medical and Research Center, 1400 Jackson Street, Denver CO 80206 or to a charity of one's choice.