Elaine Libman

Elaine Spiegel Libman, known affectionately as "Grandma Lainey," passed away peacefully on December 21, 2024, surrounded by her beloved children and grandchildren. She was 89 years old.

Born on December 12, 1935, in Philadelphia, Elaine Rosalie Spiegel was the daughter of Shirley Lipschutz and Oscar Spiegel (both deceased). She was the younger sister of Harvey Spiegel, also deceased. Elaine grew up in North Philadelphia, attended Olney High School, and went on to earn her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Temple University after one year at Penn State. She began her career as a Kindergarten teacher, where her passion for children and education flourished.

Elaine's life changed forever in December 1960 when she met Hillard Libman on a ski trip to Stowe, Vermont. Though she may have been there on another date, upon meeting Hillard, Elaine knew immediately that he was the one she was meant to marry. They were wed just eight weeks later, on February 15, 1961, at the Jewish Community Center of White Plains (now Congregation Kol Ami). They honeymooned in Europe on a ski trip, and upon returning to New York, Elaine joined Hillard and his family in running Camp Hillard in Edgemont, NY. Over the next several decades, Elaine and Hillard directed Camp Hillard, creating an enduring legacy that continues to this day. After Hillard became ill, Elaine kept the Camp going strong until Jim, Jon, and Kathleen joined her and eventually became directors. Elaine remained an integral part of the camp, working with Jim, Jon, and Kathleen, until the spring of 2024, contributing in countless ways to its success and fostering a strong community for generations of campers and staff.

Elaine is survived by her sons, Jon (Kathleen) Libman, and Jim (Diane) Libman; her granddaughters, Dylan and Taylor Libman; and Jim's stepdaughters, Lilliana and Sofia. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Sunnie Spiegel, and Sunnie's son Scott (Jan) Spiegel and Scott's children, Michael and Susan, and their families; as well as her sisters-in-law Jill Libman and Kit Howard and Kit's children, Jodi and Brett, and their families.

In addition to her role as a loving mother and grandmother, Elaine was deeply involved in her community, particularly through her support for Israel Children's Centers and as a board member at Congregation Kol Ami. She was a longtime friend and a pillar of support to many. Her generosity extended to numerous charitable organizations, and her friendship was treasured by all who knew her.

Throughout her life, Elaine created cherished memories with her family, especially during the many ski trips to Telluride, Colorado, and other resorts in the U.S., as well as in Europe, where she enjoyed the sport well into her 80s. Elaine was an avid skier and was still skiing black runs into her 80s. She and Hillard shared a deep love for adventure, including trips to France, Switzerland, and Austria, as well as Israel. She also traveled the world with her family and, later in life, on her own after Hillard passed away, building a lifetime of rich experiences and stories.

Elaine's love for sports was equally passionate. She enjoyed watching her sons grow up and play basketball and soccer. She also developed a love for University of Michigan football, a tradition she shared with Hillard, where Hillard went to college (as did Jill). She later became a devoted fan of Duke University basketball (Jon's school), and Tulane and Colorado University football (her granddaughters' schools), as well as Penn State and Temple University games.

Elaine's commitment to her family was the cornerstone of her life. She was a role model to her children and grandchildren, embodying integrity, honesty, compassion, and an unwavering work ethic. She instilled the importance of family and created memories that will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew her.

Elaine will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the many lives she touched through her years at Camp Hillard, her charitable endeavors, and her enduring love for her family. In her passing, we celebrate a life well-lived-one filled with love, purpose, and a legacy of kindness and service.

Her family loves her dearly and they thank her for everything she ever did for them.

May her memory be a blessing.