Elizabeth Ina Scharr

Elizabeth Ina Scharr, age 58, of West Hartford, Connecticut passed away in the early morning of Monday, November 25 at UConn Hospital. Elizabeth was the daughter of Jerome “Jerry” (predeceased) and Marlene (Ginsberg) Scharr, youngest sibling of Janet Scharr Gochberg (predeceased) and Michael Scharr (predeceased), Sister-in-law of Julie (London) Scharr and a proud aunt of Katelin Gochberg, Alison Sjoberg, and Amanda Sears.

Elizabeth was born on January 31st, 1966 and joined her two older siblings for a childhood filled with love, joy, and plenty of mischief. In her youth, she was known as Betsy and attended West Hartford Public Schools. She graduated Conard High School in 1987 and enjoyed being with her family, friends, and was an excellent Special Olympics athlete. In her twenties, she moved into a group home run by Jewish Association for Community Living (JCL) and quickly became an integral member of the house. Shortly thereafter, she began her career working at law firms across the greater Hartford area as well as at Aetna. Elizabeth was always a committed and dedicated employee. She retired around the age of 50 and then spent her time at HARC’s senior life enrichment day program.

Elizabeth had many passions. A true highlight for her was her time at Camp Horizons, where she would spend some weekends and holidays celebrating and doing activities with fellow campers and staff. She was also an avid horseback rider at Manes & Motions. When she wasn’t at work or pursuing her hobbies, she enjoyed trips to the library to get DVDs, Barnes & Noble to get puzzle books, and Dunkin Donuts to get her favorite peach tea and strawberry donut.

Those who knew her well knew about her various interests that changed over the years. She had her Shrek phase, Spongebob era, and most recently her love for Frozen and Mamma Mia. Her home was filled with the constant sound of the Mamma Mia movies and those around her know those songs by heart. She had a special place in her heart for butterflies, pigs, babies, and weddings. She was a lady who loved pink, purple, and anything with sparkles.

The family would like to thank all who knew and loved her, but specifically the staff at HARC and JCL. A special thank you to Tonya, Glen, Sally, Larry & Haydee, Deb and all other individuals who were deeply involved in making her days brighter.

From her youth until her final days, she was beloved by all she met. Her smile and laugh could bring joy and warmth to all. Everyone who knew Elizabeth has a story to tell about her sense of humor, kindness, cleverness, and spunk. We encourage you to continue to share those stories. The world will be a darker place without Elizabeth in it. May her memory be a blessing.

Services will be held at 11 am on Wednesday, November 27th at Beth El Temple, 2626 Albany Ave, West Hartford.

Burial at Beth El Temple Cemetery, 51 Jackson Street, Avon, CT immediately following services.

A memorial reception & luncheon will be held immediately following the graveside service at Beth El Temple, 2626 Albany Ave, West Hartford.

In memory of Elizabeth, contributions can be made to the Jewish Association for Community Living at 34 Jerome Ave, Bloomfield, CT 06002.

In memory of Elizabeth, contributions can be made to the Jewish Association for Community Living at 34 Jerome Ave, Bloomfield, CT 06002.

A memorial reception luncheon will be held immediately following the graveside service at Beth El Temple, 2626 Albany Ave, West Hartford.