Elizabeth Greenfield of Highland Lakes, N.J., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021, after years of bravely battling a series of painful and debilitating conditions. She was 64.
Beth adored her three children – Claire, Catherine, and Greg – and her devoted husband, Charlie Hyman. Beth, the loving daughter of Bruce and the late Nancy Greenfield, leaves behind her cherished siblings – Mark, Mara, and Jane - along with her nieces and nephews – Hannah, Shannon, Graham, Audrey and Julie. Beth, a strong, witty, hardworking and thoroughly endearing woman, was a lifelong student and achiever, earning three academic degrees, a B.A. from Drew University, a J.D. from New York Law School and a Master of Library and Information Sciences from Rutgers University. She put all these degrees to good use during her varied career, including years at Latham and Watkins LLP, where she served as law librarian and managing attorney.
After moving from Forest Hills, N.Y., to Maplewood, N.J., in 1996, Beth quickly became involved with several community organizations, including The Ethical Culture Society and Maplewood Garden Club. She loved everything about Maplewood, especially the flowering plum tree that stood in our front yard.
Her insatiable appetite for learning and love of trivia stood her in good stead in one of her favorite pursuits, outsmarting the “official” contestants on “Jeopardy.” Her eclectic tastes in music ranged all the way from The Rolling Stones, Prince, and vintage Backstreet Boys to classical music and show tunes. Knowing that her children had the ability to succeed in anything they attempted, she became the fiercest of advocates for them, insisting they be afforded access to every available school resource. Her efforts paid off handsomely, as anyone who knows her kids can attest.
Even as her health began to decline, Beth strove to maintain her grace and dignity. She remained cheery and optimistic. Anyone on one of her marathon phone conversations would have no idea how much she was struggling. Ultimately, eating itself became an insurmountable challenge. We will all miss Beth terribly, but can take some comfort, knowing that she leaves us with indelible memories of joy and love.
The family suggests that those wishing to honor Beth’s memory consider a donation to the National Eating Disorders Association, by visiting nationaleatingdisorders.org. Arrangements were made by Iliff-Ruggiero Funeral Home, Newton, N.J.