Flora Shirley Jayson's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Flora Shirley Jayson August 2, 1936 – August 10, 2025.
Flora Shirley Jayson, beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2025, at the age of 89. Her life was a testament to kindness, resilience, and a deep commitment to family, community, and personal growth.
Born in Newark, New Jersey, Flora spent most of her life in New York and New Jersey before settling in Delray Beach, Florida, 15 years ago.
She raised her three children—Rhonda Mallek, Sharon Woudenberg, and David Bernstein—alongside their father, Martin, in Somers, New York. She adored her grandchildren, Greivin, Xavier, Serena, and Rachel, and her sons-in-law, Robert Woudenberg and Jon Mallek. She was also a loving sister to the late Edward Jayson and sister-in-law to Agnes.
Flora’s life was enriched by her love of animals—her home was always shared with the pets she adored. She was equally devoted to her faith community, becoming an active and loved member of Temple Sinai in Delray Beach.
On May 2, 2025, at 88 years old, Flora fulfilled a long-held dream when she was honored with her Bat Mitzvah, a milestone that brought her closer to her Rabbi, congregation, and spiritual heritage. Her professional life reflected her compassion and dedication to helping others.
Flora began as a school aide and later earned her bachelor’s degree in her forties, going on to work as a case worker for developmentally disabled adults. Her career was marked by patience, empathy, and a belief in the dignity of every individual she served.
Flora will be remembered for her warmth, humor, and generous spirit. She believed in lifelong learning, the importance of community, and the power of small acts of kindness to change the world.
A celebration of Flora’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 17, at Congregation Sons of Israel in Nyack, New York. Friends and family in Florida gathered on Monday, August 11, at Temple Sinai in Delray Beach to honor her memory.
Her light will continue to shine in the lives she touched, in every warm memory, and in the values she passed down to her family.
What’s your fondest memory of Flora?
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Share a story where Flora's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Flora you’ll never forget.
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