Terry Bernstein

Terry Matthews Bernstein, passed away at home surrounded by her family on Tuesday, April 16, 2019 at home at the age of 91. She was born on June 8, 1927 in the Bronx to Louis and Edna (Weinberg) Berlin, where she raised her children until moving to Rockland County in 1959.

To know her was to admire her. Her confidence, intelligence, and independence were second to none.

At the age of 16, she graduated from James Monroe High School after skipping several grades, and was admitted to Hunter College on a scholarship where she pursued studies in psychology before marrying and starting a family. In the 40s and 50s, she helped to run the family’s businesses in the Bronx, serving up some of the tastiest malteds in the luncheonette business.

After moving to Rockland County, Terry nearly immediately became the social beacon of her neighborhood, hosting legendary parties with all the best food and dancing. Neighbors were known to wander into her house any day of the week to taste whatever was on the stove, which was sure to be divine. She also loved to read, and was a prolific knitter and gardener.

In her 60s, she found love in Philip Bernstein. the two were married in 1988 and stayed madly in love until Phil passed away in 2001.

Terry is survived by her daughter Karen and son-in-law Robert Griffith, her daughter Lynn and son-in-law John Wechgelaer, and step-son Rick Bernstein and his wife Lynette. She also leaves behind her grandchildren Jennifer, Gregory, Kristi, Bryan, and Dylan, and her great-grandchildren Ciara, Michael, and Claire. Terry was preceded in death by her loving husband Phil, her parents, brothers, and her son, Ralph Matthews.

The family will receive family and friends at home on Friday, April 19 from 2-8 pm.

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