Elaine Schlenker Prizzi

Elaine Schlenker Prizzi, a beloved mother, sister, and cherished friend, passed away on April 28, 2026, at the age of 76, after a brief yet severe and undetected illness. Born on October 25, 1949, at Holy Name Hospital in Teaneck, New Jersey, Elaine was the daughter of Christian and Erna Schlenker, both of whom predeceased her. Her father was a 1st Lieutenant in the US Army, and her mother was a nurturing presence in her early life. Elaine was a creative and inquisitive spirit, graduating from Pascack Valley High School in 1967, before earning her B.F.A. from Moore College of Art in 1971. Her passion for learning led her to further her skills at the University of California, San Diego, where she studied copyediting in 2016. Elaine's career as a graphic designer and art director saw her talents gracing Goodway, various freelance projects, and the prestigious Franklin Mint. Her artistic flair was evident in all her endeavors, but her heart was most full when she transitioned to a role that combined her love for language and education. She became a dedicated copyeditor, English tutor, and editor of several published books. Her most recent position was with Back to Basics Learning Dynamics in Wilmington, DE, where she formed lasting connections with her students, guiding them to achieve their best. Family was at the center of Elaine’s life. She was married to Anthony Joseph Prizzi, a Sergeant in the US Marine Corps, on April 14, 1984, in Park Ridge, NJ, until his passing. Together, they raised a loving family. Elaine is survived by her sister Karen (Bill), her brother Curt, her son Derek (Melissa), her daughter Daria (Stephen), and her stepchildren Zandra (Chub), Pam, Kim (Jim), TJ (Linda), and Darin. She was a devoted mother and stepmother, always ensuring her home was filled with warmth, love, and the comforting aroma of her home-cooked meals. Elaine's curiosity and enthusiasm for life were infectious. She was a lifelong learner, and her interests spanned reading, writing, music, and the arts. She was known for her thoughtfulness, often remembering and acknowledging the important milestones in the lives of those she loved. Her introspective nature and dedication to doing things right and making them special left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. A celebration of Elaine’s life will be held on May 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Strano & Feeley Funeral Home, located at 635 Churchmans Road, Newark, DE 19702. Family and friends are invited to attend as we honor the memory of a woman whose life was a testament to the power of creativity, compassion, and love. Elaine's legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege to know her. May her spirit continue to inspire us to embrace life with the same warmth and curiosity that she did.