Obituary: Rhoda Leshine Loeb, 100, of Branford

Obituary courtesy of the family:

Rhoda Leshine Loeb was born on March 30, 1921. She died on March 7, 2022, just a few weeks shy of her 101 st birthday. She resided in East Haven and Branford during her childhood. In adulthood, she lived in New Haven and Branford. She was predeceased by her parents, Jennie and Meyer Leshine, her husband, John Loeb and her siblings, Shirley Rosenstein and Zelman Leshine. She is survived by her son, Michael Loeb and his wife Reva.

Rhoda graduated from The University of Michigan in 1942 and from Yale Law School in 1944, where she was one of a very small number of female students. She worked as a lawyer in New York City and then returned to New Haven where she practiced law for most of her career.

Rhoda became the Commissioner of Workers’ Compensation, working into her 80’s until her retirement from that position.

Rhoda was very generous with her time and was always very active in supporting multiple organizations and charities for the betterment of her community, including the Branford Historical Society, Branford Economic Development Commission, Branford Cable Television and the Democratic Party.

Rhoda was an avid reader of non-fiction books and newspapers, as many as four each day. Earlier in her life she enjoyed gardening, traveling and loved the arts. She was a supporter of the Yale Art Gallery.

Rhoda loved the town of Branford and was very proud of the role her family took in establishing
businesses in the community. She loved living by Long Island Sound and for most of her life tried not to miss a day of swimming in it.

Rhoda not only collected art and books, but she collected people. She had so many friends of all ages.

People were drawn to Rhoda and her home was open to everyone. Nothing made her happier than
sharing her home and her stories with those around her.

She lived a long and healthy life and had an impact on those who were lucky enough to know her.

Arrangements were private. Donations in her memory can be made to the Leshine Family Scholarship, Branford High School, 185 East Main Street, Branford, CT 06405.