Harriet Indik Hershenov

Harriet (Chaya Sora) Sandra Indik Hershenov (née Simberloff), age 92, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, in Hillside, New Jersey. Born on June 20, 1933, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Harriet lived a life marked by dedication to her family, community service, and unwavering principles. Harriet earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pennsylvania and later pursued a Master’s degree in Special Education from Trenton State. Her commitment to education extended far beyond the classroom—she was an active member of the South Brunswick School Board of Education and a passionate advocate for inclusive learning environments. Throughout her life, Harriet devoted herself to causes that made a difference for others. She volunteered with numerous organizations including the NAACP, Concerned Black Parents and Citizens of South Brunswick, Citizens for Independent Living, Volunteer Action Commission, Kendall Park First Aid Squad, South Brunswick Lions Club, Mental Health Players, and Citizens for Education—an outgrowth of Citizens for Johnson. Her tireless efforts reflected her deep belief in justice, equity, and community engagement. Harriet was known for her honesty and strong principles. She was as kind as she was stubborn—a combination that made her both a fierce advocate and a deeply compassionate presence in the lives of those around her. She found joy in connecting with others at the South Brunswick Senior Center and remained actively involved in civic life well into her later years. She was the beloved mother of Marty Indik; Jay Indik; Debbie Petterson; Bill Indik; and the late Joy Indik. She was also a cherished mother-in-law to Geralyn Hearne; SuEllen Hamkins (former); Angela Indik; and Erik Petterson. Harriet took immense pride in her grandchildren: Meredith Reatz (Pat Bell), Tiama Hamkins-Indik (Tim Ando), Frank Hamkins-Indik, Athena Petterson (Elton Webb, 6ft) and Barry Indik. Harriet was delighted by her great-granddaughter Sora Hamkins-Ando. Harriet is also survived by her brother Alan Simberloff, age 95. She was predeceased by her husbands Bernard "Barry" Indik and Bernard "Bernie" Hershenov.

Harriet’s life was one of purpose and compassion. Her memory will live on through the many lives she touched—as a devoted mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, cousin, and volunteer.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.

Shiva will be held at:

Bill and Angie’s Home

412 Jefferson St

Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462

Suggested donations:

Metuchen Friends and Neighbors,

10 Station Place, Metuchen, NJ 08840

metuchenfriendsandneighbors@gmail.com

or

Southern Poverty Law Center

400 Washington Ave

Montgomery, AL 36104

To make a donation on the phone please call

(334)956-8408

ZOOM LINK- FOR THOSE WHO MAY WANT TO VIEW FUNERAL SERVICE

Topic: Harriet Hershenov’s Funeral

Time: Jul 1, 2025 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85640848513?pwd=uitZjHK3OqRO1jvnaJnbcVxW5h5WOq.1

Meeting ID: 856 4084 8513

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