I knew Wendy as long as I can remember — she was my mother’s sister’s daughter — and was one of my closest cousins in both age and residence. We were always friends, as well. I remember playing skelly with her (and my younger sister) on the streets of Flatbush, Brooklyn, when Aunt Emily and Uncle Herman (her parents) lived around the corner from Grandma — who lived on East 14th Street. I remember when they moved to Beaumont Street in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, and later when they moved to Norfolk Street. I lived with Wendy briefly when I returned to college in mid-life; she graciously let me stay at her home while I took some of my music courses at Kingsborough Community College. (Rachyl also kindly allowed me to stay at her first apartment nearby when she and her then-husband spent some time in Italy.) I cannot condense all my lifetime of memories into one brief paragraph about her — Wendy was a complex and amazing person, who spent a long career as a teacher’s aide in a Brooklyn public school — but I can say that she was clever, funny, and good-hearted with those she loved, and a caustic critic of those she disdained. And her disdain was always toward the phonies and frauds. She could spot a liar or a poseur a mile away, and she let you know if she thought you were trying to con her. She loved good people, animals (cats and dogs were always romping around her home) and she loved family parties and good food. I can still hear her madly joyous cackle of laughter at the jokes her father told at family Passover seders, And Aunt Emily’s Thanksgiving parties were also legendary — Em and Herman opened their home to soldiers stationed at the nearby Army base for many years, so they could celebrate Thanksgiving or Passover with a family, while they were far from home, and I’m certain that Wendy’s heart was molded by her parents’ hospitality. She’s the first of my cousins to die, and a part of me died when I heard the news. I will always remember her, and always recall her with love.

Dear Rachel and family, I met you a few time while delivering medications to Wendy, she was one of our customers at Dans. She always took the time to ask how I was doing as she knew I was a single mother. She shared stories about her life with you growing up (Rachel) and how amazing you were as a child. One of my last visits with her she gave me a lovely blanket for my little boy, I will always cherish the talks I had with her and the time spent with her! She was truly an amazing person! You are all in my thoughts and prayers

Rachyl, My heart is breaking over the loss of your wonderfully sweet and loving Mom. Wendy was such a first, happy, slightly insane beautiful soul. Always loved her. How she adored her Rachyl?. I may still live up here in New York but I am here for you anytime you need me. Call me when you just want someone to talk to. I love you and truly miss you, Diane

My dahling. Who will I bring a blueberry muffin to now? I am so grateful to have known you. And also grateful to have become friends with your daughter. Rachel, your mom was one of a kind and I will cherish my amazing memories I have of your mom. We sure had some laughs. My love and prayers are with you and your family.

We all have very fond memories of Wendy. I remember when she first moved to Stafford from New York and was very hesitant to change Doctors and Pharmacies. All the staff loved talking with her and she always made us laugh. We missed her when she moved to Richmond. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Dear Rachel and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Wendy was one of my pharmacy customers and made me smile everyday we talked. She loved to make me laugh especially on rough days. I delivered her medicine and a smile when she needed it! Her NY accent was the best. She always told it like it was. She would always ask “where’s my Tonya”? I truly miss her and our chats. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Please let me know if you need anything. God Bless.

Rachel, I’m so sorry to hear about your loss we are sending lots of hugs love thoughts and prayers your way if their is anything you need please let us know!! Love you my dear sweet friend

Rachel, I’m very saddened to hear of your loss. My heart goes out to you in your time of sorrow. Know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Dearest Rachel, I know your Mom was a great lady because she raised a great lady. I am so very sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts!