Obituary of Roberta Saundra Jackson

Jackson, Roberta S. nee: Rothberg, age 71, of Kearny, passed away on August 28, 2019, from pneumonia complicated by leukemia, surrounded by loved ones. Born June 25, 1948 in Brooklyn, NY, one of Roberta’s extracurriculars at Tilden High School (Class of ’66) was Mail Squad Secretary. That role came in handy years later when she met and married her devoted husband, Arthur Jackson, a letter carrier. Their 39th wedding anniversary would have been August 31.

Roberta took classes in business administration at City College of New York, before discovering her true passion – travel.  A travel agent for 35 years, and founder of her own company, Tours of Distinction, Roberta trotted the globe as an organizer and tour escort. She instilled in her family a sense of wonder for exploring the wider world, and often brought back incredible souvenirs for her beloved daughter, Sharyn Jackson, currently of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Roberta never stopped planning travel, even after she retired. She recently organized a family cruise in the Caribbean. That week together will be an enduring and bittersweet memory for everyone who joined her.

Known for her kasha varnishkes, her deft driving in Holland Tunnel traffic, her impossibly long memory, her daily date with “Jeopardy!”, and her ability to turn any story into an epic, Roberta had a singular personality that will never be forgotten. The generosity of love she had for her family and close friends, and her willingness to fix any problem for them, big or small, was unmatched.

Her last 16 months on Earth were filled with unrivaled joy after the birth of her grandson, Milo, who stamped a permanent smile upon the face of his “Bubby.” While her time with all of us was unexpectedly short, we take comfort in the happiness he brought her.

For decades, Roberta was an active leader in her synagogue, Cong. B’nai Israel of Kearny and North Arlington. At this year’s High Holidays, her presence – and her kasha -- will be greatly missed.

Roberta is preceded in death by her father Samuel Rothberg and mother Gertrude Rothberg. In addition to her husband Arthur, daughter Sharyn and grandson Milo, Roberta is survived by her daughter-in-law Laryssa Husiak, brother Marc Rothberg, cat Skippy, and many dear family and friends.

Chapel Service Friday, Aug. 30, at Congregation B'nai Israel of Kearny & N. Arlington, Kearny, NJ at 10 AM. Shiva Sunday 2 PM and 7 PM, Monday and Tuesday 7 PM at 725 Devon St, Kearny. For condolences, directions, or information www.edenmemorial.com  or call (201) 947-EDEN