Elaine Alberts
1936 – 2023
MONROE TOWNSHIP – Elaine Alberts, 87, peacefully passed away surrounded by her close family on Wednesday, March 1, 2023 in New Jersey.
She is lovingly survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Jacqueline Alberts and James Fearon; her son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Leeann Alberts; and her three grandchildren, Jennifer, Melissa (Max), and Jeffrey Fearon. Elaine was the matriarch of her extended family, including “adopted” grandchildren, children, and siblings. She spoke frequently with her cherished friends and family. Elaine is predeceased by her husband of 57 years, Myron (Mike) Alberts; her brother, Allan Schwartz; and her parents, Ruth and Max Schwartz.
Born in Brooklyn, NY, Elaine grew up in the heart of a large extended family and in her parents’ grocery store. She met the love of her life at Brighton Beach. Elaine and Mike raised Brian and Jackie in Brooklyn and Flushing, Queens, with summers spent traveling the country in their trailer.
Elaine studied for 13 years to earn a bachelor’s degree from Brooklyn College and two master’s degrees from Queens College, persisting one course at a time while raising her family. A life-long teacher and learner, Elaine taught 5th grade and science at P.S. 120 in Queens and trained a generation of future teachers. She served as a UFT union representative and served on the boards of directors for seven environmental, advocacy, and educational organizations.
Her excellence in environmental teaching was nationally-recognized by the Garden Club of America and she participated in Sony Corporation’s expert teacher exchange in Japan. With her colleagues from the Thomas J. Watson Ecology Workshop, she transformed environmental education in the City and co-founded the Alley Pond Environmental Center (APEC) in her basement.
Upon retiring, Elaine spent her next chapter traveling the world with her husband, spoiling her beloved grandchildren, hosting family traditions, and actively engaging in community organizations.
Funeral services and burial to honor her remarkable life are on Sunday, March 5 at 1:00 p.m. at Beth Abraham Cemetery, 617 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, NJ.
The period of mourning will be observed at the Alberts residence in Monroe Twp, NJ; visitors are welcome from 12 p.m. – 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday (March 3 and 4), and from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday (March 5.) The family welcomes memorial contributions to APEC, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens, NY. Funeral arrangements by Orland’s Ewing Memorial Chapel. For condolences please visit OrlandsMemorialChapel.com
I have fond memories of Elaine, whom I met in the 1970’s when I was helping to create environmental education curriculum guides. I piloted them in Elaine’s classroom where she was greatly helpful in the final products. Elaine later joined my organization, Environmental Action Coalition, as a valued Board Member. She was a true environmental leader.
So sorry to hear of Elaine’s passing. I taught with her at P.S. 120 for many years. She was a dynamic force and a valued leader for our school, students and teachers.