Jane Rothstein

WORCESTER - Marjorie Jane Rothstein, “Jane”, an extraordinary woman, devoted wife, mother, teacher and friend, passed away on August 24, 2024, supported by her loving family. She was born in Queens, New York, the daughter of Milton and Marjorie (Levison) Mannheim.

Jane’s life was a tapestry of family, love, arts, friends and community. She was born in Queens, New York and attended the prestigious High School of Music and Arts in the City.

Jane earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Connecticut where she met her beloved husband Ralph, to whom she wed nearly 69 years ago. They moved around a bit – to Chicago and Milwaukee – before settling in Worcester in 1965. Jane later earned a Master’s Degree in Fine Arts from Assumption University.

Jane’s calling as an arts educator was evident to all who knew her. For over 40 years, she nurtured young minds starting in the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, then the Worcester Public School system before her final years teaching in the Grafton Public Schools. She also taught at Temple Emanuel and the Worcester Jewish Community Center. Jane shared her passion for painting, arts and crafts, and art history, leaving a lasting impression on her students. Wherever Jane went in Worcester, her former students recognized her and shared the impact she had on them. Her passion for art was only exceeded by her devotion to teaching. And her creativity was infectious.

Aside from work, Jane’s life was rich with activities, friends and family. An avid tennis player, she was known for her wicked slice backhand and a formidable forehand. Jane was a voracious reader and a proud patron of the Worcester Public Library. She loved to play Mahjong, watch the chipmunks with Ralph, and promote cultural activities at her retirement community - the Willows of Worcester. She also loved to host parties and get-togethers for her friends. One of her proudest accomplishments was being docent at the Worcester Art Museum, where she would introduce art to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Jane was loyal and compassionate, and always looking after others. She fought against injustice. Jane taught at Head Start in Worcester for many years, and supported organizations promoting equality and inclusion. She was kind, loving, forgiving, and generous to all. And her Jewish identity meant a great deal to her.

But foremost, Jane loved her family, and they loved her dearly. She was a devoted wife and mother who brought out the best in her husband, Ralph and children – Deborah and husband Scott, Pamela and David -- by exhibiting empathy and sincerity, while also being genuine and supportive. Jane adored her grandchildren and took a keen interest in their lives. She witnessed Zachary and his wife Raji marry and became a great-grandmother to their daughter, Anasuya. And Jane excitedly learned of Ansel and Sydney’s recent engagement. ‍

The service to honor and celebrate Jane's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, August 27th at Temple Emanuel Sinai, 661 Salisbury Street, Worcester. Interment will follow at B’nai Brith Cemetery, 55 St. John’s Road, Worcester. Immediately following the interment service, a reception will be held in the Great Room at The Willows of Worcester, 101 Barry Road, Worcester.

For those wishing to make Memorial Contributions to celebrate Jane’s Life, the family has established The Jane Rothstein Memorial Fund at the Jewish Federation of Central Massachusetts, 646 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA 01609 ( www.jewishcentralmass.org/donate ), or donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.