Elaine Melnikoff

Elaine Melnikoff (Yospin), 96, of Scottsdale, Ariz., and Verona died Aug. 24, 2017. She was born in Brooklyn and resided in Millburn for 40 years before later moving to Verona. She also spent time in Scottsdale and Manhattan.

Mrs. Melnikoff taught elementary school for a few years in Brooklyn. Later, she did some substitute teaching.

She graduated from Brooklyn College in 1942 with studies in languages and education.

She dedicated her time to charitable causes through Millburn’s Congregation B’nai Israel, where she sang in the choir, and its sisterhood; National Council of Jewish Women; Women’s ORT; and Hadassah. 

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She used her language skills to teach English to new immigrants. With an appreciation of contemporary art, she selected new artists for inclusion in several NJ charitable auctions. A lifelong needle-crafter, she knitted newborn hats for donation to Honor Health Hospitals.

Predeceased by her husband, Meyer, she is survived by two daughters, Susan Melnikoff Sibley of Miami and Barbara Melnikoff of East Rutherford; her son, Peter of Scottsdale; a sister, Thelma Kanig of Chicago; two grandsons; and a great-grandson.

Services were held Aug. 30 with arrangements by J.L. Apter Memorial Chapels of Maplewood. Memorial contributions may be made to the Meyer & Elaine Melnikoff Fund at Jewish Community Foundation of Greater MetroWest NJ.