'Arlene's Garden' dedicated at JCC

Center Play School Early Childhood Director Randi Cohen leads the children in a special memorial song.

The family of the late Arlene Ansell gathered at Center Play School (CPS) at the Ruth Hyman Jewish Community Center in Deal on Friday, May 4, for a dedication of a garden that was installed in Arlene's memory.

For five years Arlene was a beloved teacher's assistant at CPS, before passing away suddenly six years ago.

Her friends and coworkers at CPS spoke about their memories of Arlene, who was known for her joy of life, love of children and great sense of humor.

"When I got up this morning and saw the beautiful sunshine, I really felt like Arlene was with me today," said pre-school teacher Bobby Duchin. "Even though it's been six years since she died, I feel this closeness to Arlene nearly every day. Arlene used to say that working at CPS was one of the happiest times of her life, and it showed in everything she did. She loved the children more than anything."

Led by kindergarten and music teacher Peggy Gaber-Casey and CPS Early Childhood Director Randi Cohen on guitar, the students performed their rendition of the Byrds' song "Turn, Turn, Turn" for the Ansell family.

Center Play School raised funds to erect Arlene's Garden, and welcomes additional donations for its upkeep.