Obituary for Marie Elizabeth Pittman
Obituary of Marie Elizabeth Pittman
Marie Pittman passed away peacefully on June 3rd 2023. She was a remarkable woman who lived an extraordinary life that spanned 99 years. She had a big heart and generous spirit, always putting others before herself. Everyone who knew her can attest to the fact that she brought joy and friendship into their lives.
Marie was born in Brooklyn, New York during the Great Depression to immigrant parents who had arrived from Barbados and Jamaica, in the West Indies. As part of the 'colored' community, she attended public schools, later graduated from Hunter College, and earned her master's degree from the New York School of Social Work, (now part of Columbia University). She made a difference professionally and through volunteer work. She volunteered with the Girl Scouts of America, and continued with undertakings, such as Volunteers of America, Help Lines and work in the areas of domestic violence, foster care, and adoption.
Marie Pittman's most satisfying work was as an administrator in the Auxiliary Education Career Unit of the New York City's Board of Education, which created non-traditional methods for paraprofessionals to attend college and become teachers in city schools. For fun, in addition to travel, she played short fielder for the Long Island Semi-Professional American Girls Fast Pitch Softball League during World War II. She retired as a teacher and assistant principal.
Marie's legacy continues through those blessed to know her. The lessons she taught us throughout our lives--to never give up hope, to remain persistent in achieving our dreams, and always strive for justice against injustice--sustain us even today.
A memorial service for Marie Pittman will be held at a later date. A public announcement will welcome friends and family to pay their respects and celebrate the life of this wonderful woman who touched so many lives.
Marie Pittman passed away peacefully on June 3rd 2023. She was a remarkable woman who lived an extraordinary life that spanned 99 years. She had a big heart and generous spirit, always putting others before herself. Everyone who knew her can attest to the fact that she brought joy and friendship into their lives.
Marie was born in Brooklyn, New York during the Great Depression to immigrant parents who had arrived from Barbados and Jamaica, in the West Indies. As part of the 'colored' community, she attended public schools, later graduated from Hunter College, and earned her master's degree from the New York School of Social Work, (now part of Columbia University). She made a difference professionally and through volunteer work. She volunteered with the Girl Scouts of America, and continued with undertakings, such as Volunteers of America, Help Lines and work in the areas of domestic violence, foster care, and adoption.
Marie Pittman's most satisfying work was as an administrator in the Auxiliary Education Career Unit of the New York City's Board of Education, which created non-traditional methods for paraprofessionals to attend college and become teachers in city schools. For fun, in addition to travel, she played short fielder for the Long Island Semi-Professional American Girls Fast Pitch Softball League during World War II. She retired as a teacher and assistant principal.
Marie's legacy continues through those blessed to know her. The lessons she taught us throughout our lives--to never give up hope, to remain persistent in achieving our dreams, and always strive for justice against injustice--sustain us even today.
A memorial service for Marie Pittman will be held at a later date. A public announcement will welcome friends and family to pay their respects and celebrate the life of this wonderful woman who touched so many lives.