With heavy hearts, we share the passing of our loving mom, babushka, sister, aunt and mother-in-law, Brokha Novozhenets, who left us on May 8th, 2025, at the age of 87. Brokha was a beautiful soul, who touched the lives of everyone she met. As a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, her love and support were the foundation of her family.
Brokha Novozhenets was born on January 23, 1938, in Borisov, Belarus. As the youngest of five children, Yuda (predeceased), Fanya (predeceased), Fruma, and Zina, Brokha grew up surrounded by the love and care of her family despite the enormous challenges of war and evacuation. The love and support of her mother and siblings during such a difficult time shaped Brokha’s strong, kind, and loving personality for the rest of her life. Her parents, Pesya and Faiva and siblings gave her strength and support throughout her life even being separated later in life by death and immigration.
Brokha had a special gift for making friends and spreading kindness wherever she went. People were drawn to her because she genuinely loved and respected everyone. Her hardworking nature and willingness to lend a hand endeared her to many.
Strong-willed and determined, Brokha faced life’s challenges with incredible resilience. Her strength was an inspiration to all who knew her. She lived her life with grace, always putting others first and showing us the true meaning of love and compassion. Brokha’s Jewish faith was a cornerstone in life, providing her with strength, guidance, and a deep sense of community.
Brokha was deeply loved by her sons, Yefim (Olga) and Yuri (Marina), who were her pride and joy. She cherished every moment spent with them, and their bond was unbreakable. She is now reunited with her beloved husband of 61 years, Grigoriy, who predeceased her. Their love story was one of unwavering devotion and mutual respect.
For nearly 40 years, Brokha dedicated herself to her grandchildren – Polina, Jacob, and Ben. Her love and guidance shaped their lives in countless ways. Later in life, Brokha found immense joy in her great-grandchildren, Leo and Sadie, who she adored and often wished she could offer more help in raising them. Family was her greatest treasure, and she poured her heart into every moment spent with them.
Brokha also shared a special bond with her siblings, nieces, and nephews. She loved them dearly and valued the time spent together, whether on the phone or in person, creating memories that will be treasured forever. She took sincere interest and care in all she loved, and she loved so many.
Though she is no longer with us, Brokha’s spirit will continue to guide and inspire us. Her legacy of love, kindness, and strength will live on in our hearts forever. We will miss Brokha deeply, but we find comfort in knowing that her memory will always be a part of us.
Graveside Services will be held on MONDAY May 12, 2025 at 10 AM in Mount Hope Cemetery. CLICK HEREfor a map to the cemetery.
Donations may be made to Chabad Lubavitch, Rochester NY in Brokha’s memory. CLICK HEREto donate online.
