Miriam Speight

Miriam Speight ( nee Emedan ) of West Nyack, New York, seventy six years old, passed away peacefully Sunday morning, March 29, 2020. Miriam was born on June 21, 1943 to Emelia and Shade Emedan in Havana, Cuba.

She graduated Broadlea High School in Goshen, NY. Miriam graduated Fordham University in 1966 Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and French. She received her Masters Degree in Spanish Studies from Iona College in 1969. Her love of her first language Spanish, and culture, Cuban, was an important part of her life, always, and, through her father, her Palestinian family. Miriam’s career as a teacher of Spanish (and French) was something she took great pride in, something she loved. She enjoyed the love and respect of her students and colleagues.

Fifty three years ago, she married John Speight. Miriam loved her family above all else. She loved travel, cooking (especially baking), and helping others in countless ways.

She is survived by her husband John; her sons John (Young) and Mark (Vanessa ) and by four loving grandchildren: Isabel, Kevin, Olivia and Jack. Also: her loving brother, Yamil Emedan of Miami, Florida and his family. Miriam had many nieces and nephews who loved her and were loved by her.