Sylvia Geser
1929 – 2024
Sylvia Geser, wife, mother, Grandmother, Aunt, sister, and friend, died at the age of 95 after a long, very happy and very fulfilled life. She was devoted to her husband Alvin Geser to whom she was married for 54 years, as well as to her children Sarah, Louis, Harry, daughters in law Ilene and Terri, and granddaughters Amelia, Cara, Isabel, and Elizabeth. She is predeceased by her husband Alvin, her brother Herbie, and her son Louis.
Sylvia was born in Brooklyn, NY, in 1929, and moved to Florida with her family as a young girl, where she developed her love for the beach! Sylvia attended the University of Alabama in the early 1950’s, and graduated with a teaching degree. She went on to earn a Master’s degree in public speaking. Sylvia was president of her college debate team, and insisted that her debate team debate a traditionally black college which was not done at the time, particularly in the south. She was successful and this debate was held.
Sylvia taught second grade for many years, relocating from Florida to Baltimore where she met Alvin on a blind date that led to an amazing love affair. Sylvia and Alvin moved to NJ in 1960 when Alvin assumed his role as executive officer of the NJ Pharmaceutical Association. This role led them to meet like-minded life long friends as they traveled around NJ, the country and the world advocating for the interest of the pharmacy profession. They lived in the Trenton and Lawrence area for 50 years.
Sylvia loved being a mom. She would frequently welcome neighborhood kids over and run things like a classroom. She would give us large projects to work on like forming a band or writing and practicing a play. This would “keep us busy and out of trouble” for hours. Sylvia was an active member of the community, serving as President of Mercer Hadassah, President of the Mercer County League of Women’s Voters, President of Brothers of Israel Synagogue, and President of the Women’s Auxiliary of The New Jersey Pharmaceutical Association. During her time as the first woman president of Brothers of Israel Synagogue, Sylvia insisted that if a woman could be president of the synagogue, a woman could sit on the bimah during services, which had not been the case until her tenure. She would joke that she would have much preferred to sit with her family, but felt this was an important stand to take. After retiring from teaching, Sylvia co-owned a local day care center, the Princeton Pike Day Care Center. The center cared for neighborhood children and employed neighborhood teens and adults. “Everyone” either attended or worked at the day care center.
In retirement, Sylvia and Alvin loved to go on day trips to the beach, to visit their children and grandchildren, visit friends and beloved relatives in Baltimore and Florida, read, cook, discuss world events and politics, and continue to offer a helping hand to friends and neighbors. As long as they were together, they would find joy in whatever they did. They were often seen around the neighborhood holding hands and taking long walks, or going to see local outdoor concerts. After Alvin passed away in 2014, Sylvia relocated to NY, where she lived for several years before returning to NJ 2 years ago.
Sylvia continued to hold very strong beliefs up to her final days around her Jewish faith, equality for all, civil rights, women’s rights, democracy, providing for the underserved, and living a life of service and value. She was dedicated to lifelong family, friends and neighbors who she loved to visit with, talk to, and correspond with. Sylvia was known for being able to express strong opinions and convictions with diplomacy and respect for all. Sylvia had a genuine kindness that was recognized by many and shared with all. If you wish to make a contribution in honor of Sylvia’s life, please consider donating to The Mercer County League of Women’s Voters (lwvlt.org), or Congregation Brothers of Israel in Newtown, PA (cboi.org)
Graveside funeral services will be held on Friday, September 27 at 1:00 pm at Congregation Brothers of Israel Cemetery, 1100 Cedar Lane, Hamilton, NJ.
Funeral arrangements are by Orland’s Ewing Memorial Chapel. OrlandsMemorialChapel.com/sylvia-geser
Aunt Sylvia and Uncle Alvin were always there for me. Fun , loving and always kept the family close. Their love for each other is eternal now💕💫
Love to my cousins,
Sheryl
Mrs. Geser was such a wonderful neighborhood friend. She took me under her wing many times—when my grandfather died, when I needed tutoring in Spanish or Math, when I felt left out. She had a sixth sense for knowing just what was needed, with empathy and understanding, she listened with an open mind, never judgmental.
Her daughter, Sarah, is my childhood and current friend, and I will always remember how much Sylvia loved her. They joked around and Mrs. Geser’s quiet presence was always nearby. I will always remember High Holiday dinners at the Geser residence throughout my childhood years.
When Sylvia needed more than solely loving care, her family made sure she had all of her needs met.
I will always remember fondly, Mrs. Geser.
Sylvia you will be sadly missed. Your gentleness and many kindnesses as your friendship so carefully tended was a gift to all of us as is your beautiful family. Our lives were enriched as you reached out to share your love❤️
Mrs. Geser had a warm and wonderful happy smile! I only met her once but her genuine kindness and friendly demeanor will always be remembered. her daughter Sarah is absolutely amazing, a longtime friend and colleague with a heart of gold– the apple didn’t fall far from the tree as the saying goes. Condolences to all who knew and loved this lovely woman!
I have very fond memories of my sweet Aunt Sylvia and Uncle Alvin. Lots of family fun times (in Florida) we all had together with my cousins. Aunt Sylvia was so caring and compassionate, and always there for me when I needed her. I will forever be her “niece” Annice!!! Sending LOVE and HUGS, Annice and Pete
I have found memories of Sylvia and Alvin since they were close friends with my parents and were always welcome at holidays and family celebrations.
My sincere condolences on your loss but am glad that her memory lives on in so many hearts.
Reading this brought back many happy memories of your mom and dad. We spent a lot of time together growing up. I’m sorry to hear about your loss.
My sincere, deepest of condolences, and if I had known, I would’ve been graveside as I am still with the synagogue, new Men’s Club President, and I am also on the cemetery committee. Lastly, I forwarded this information, by e-mail, to my brother David, and his family, in Jerusalem.
May her name be for a blessing for all of us.