Norma Iris Poliakoff

She was born January 25th 1940 in “la isla de encanto”, Puerto Rico, a proud Boricua, and would eventually move to the Bronx NY where she would meet her husband Melvyn “Mel” Poliakoff, of 57 years.

She obtained her Masters degree in social work from Fordham University, and would go on to be a valued community member in Rockland County, which she’s called home since 1967. She helped pioneer Project Rainbow, a prevention and educational program for children of alcoholics, taught and developed bilingual instructional material for Rockland Community College, and devoted much of her life to volunteer work including co-founding the Latin American feminine league of Rockland, leading workshops in a range of social services, and being a cherished member of the East Ramapo school district PTA, among countless more contributions to the community.

She is survived by her husband Mel, and their sweet dog Roxie, her beloved daughters Terry, Brandy and her husband David, her co-mother in law and friend Helen, her dear sister Bruni, and the “lights of her life” her grandchildren, Mady, Willie, Brody, Carter. And countless friends and family that she has touched throughout her lifetime.

She is welcomed home by Pedro and Emilia her parents, her brother Pete, her cousin Tony, and her best friend and honorary sister Blancita.

She left the world the way she lived in it. With Grace, dignity, and surrounded by love.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the ACLU and/or Planned Parenthood, two organizations that were close to her heart .

Funeral Services and Burial are Private.

To join the family for her Celebration of Life please call Norma’s daughter Brandy Seltzer at 845-494-3587