Janet Devinsky's Obituary
Janet Devinsky passed away on July 14th, four days shy of her 108th birthday. Some days the family joked she was immortal, although we knew time would come for her as it comes for us all. Not two hip replacements, a broken neck, a car wreck, or life-threatening hurricanes were able to keep her down.
She was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY as Janette Seiff, and lived there until her marriage to Max Devinsky. They settled in Queens, NY where they had three children, Iris, Aaron and Paul. Tragically, she raised them as a single parent as Max passed when they were all very young.
To her children she was Mom. But she was Grandma to six and Bubby to four great-grandchildren, the latter being the sweetest name of all. She always attributed her longevity to the fact that she never owned a car, walked everywhere, and took public transportation. But it was the love from her family and those around her that sustained her. Her oft offered blessing: “May you have gezunt and shtarkeyt.” May you have health and strength.
She lived amongst a slew of world events: a child during the Influenza pandemic and witnessing women gain the right to vote; the Great Depression of 1929; Lindbergh making the first nonstop transatlantic flight; the creation of Social Security in 1935… the list goes on.
Until recently, her mind was razor sharp. She loved to play cards and could whoop your pants in gin rummy - she played to win and usually did. Her love of anything Jewish flavored her entire life — lighting Sabbath candles, attending synagogue services, and participating in as many traditions as possible.
Her life has been a blessing to all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her smile brought joy to all, she was incredibly loved and will be sorely missed.
What’s your fondest memory of Janet?
What’s a lesson you learned from Janet?
Share a story where Janet's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Janet you’ll never forget.
How did Janet make you smile?
