Elaine Dickstein, 88

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PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Elaine (Laikin) Dickstein passed away Jan. 12, 2022, in Providence. Born in Brooklyn, New York, she was the daughter of the late Abraham and Anna (Bressler) Laikin. She was the wife of the late Robert Alan Dickstein; together they raised their two children in Roslyn Heights, New York.

During her lifetime, she wore many hats: photo retoucher, PTA president, political activist, legislative assistant to a NYS assemblyman and NYS real estate appraiser. She retired in 1995 “at just the right time” to begin her grandmothering journey in Providence. She was passionate about reading, jigsaw puzzles, limerick writing, correct grammar, supporting the Providence Community Libraries and passing Yiddish and mahjong along to the next generation. Above all, she adored her family.

She is survived by her children, Susan (Tony Saccone) and Marc (Deborah) Dickstein; sisters-in-law Joan Goldberger, Alice Dickstein and Lois Laikin; adored grandchildren Max, Alexander and Benjamin Saccone, and Matthew, Eric and Lila Dickstein; co-grandmother Eve Dorfzaun; many cherished nieces and nephews; a host of book club and Temple Beth El Sisterhood friends (where she was famously known as the “Hanukkah Sale lady”); and a special group of Methyl Street neighbors whom she felt connected to like family. She was the sister of the late Eugene Laikin and co-grandmother with the late Doris Saccone.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the Providence Public Library.

obituary, Elaine Dickstein