Jennifer Straniere, a Woman of Achievement whose commitment to family and to the arts world was unwavering, dies at 69

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Jennifer Richter Straniere, a giant in the Staten Island theatrical world, who served as an inspirational mentor to generations of performers, and a visionary leader who considered community service a privilege, died in her Livingston home Friday after battling metastatic breast cancer. She was 69.

Mrs. Straniere was surrounded by her husband, retired acting New York State Supreme Court Justice Philip Straniere, the couple’s children, and close family members and friends at the time of her passing.

Her boundless enthusiasm and all-encompassing commitment to family and the theater, and her lifelong passion and dedication to the stage was unwavering — whether she was directing shows at the College of Staten Island, at Temple Israel Reform Congregation, at community theater or even supervising a public presentation at Borough Hall.

A community advocate, accomplished director, stage manager and costume designer, she knew what it meant to serve the team she led and brought characters to life on the stage she held most dear.

For her extraordinary volunteer efforts and her strong leadership qualities, she was named an Advance Woman of Achievement in the Class of 2009.

Her great devotion and passion for the arts served as a guiding light to others, including young adults in local theater, where she dedicated her entire life to improving the lives of her fellow professionals.

PERSONAL LIFE

Mrs. Straniere grew up in Long Island’s community of Great Neck, where she performed in high school productions.

She attended Wagner College, and though she adored singing and dancing, she opted to study nursing.

She met her husband at the Grymes Hill school where he said, “She was the most beautiful girl on campus.”

“She left Wagner because she couldn’t do nursing part time, and we got married,” her husband recalled. “She began working while I was in law school, but later earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Richmond College.”

She was an actor’s equity stage manager and could have pursued that as her vocation, but she got more joy out of working with the community and watching young people develop into actors and actresses and mature adults, he added.

But it was in her exemplary role as wife and mother, where she really shined bright.

The Stranieres’ first-born son, Gregory, now 41, was diagnosed with autism at a time when the condition had barely been identified.

“We tried early intervention with Gregory and people would always say he would grow out of it or that he would catch up in time,” Mrs. Straniere once stated in an Advance/SILive.com interview.

“She was involved with advocacy for people with disabilities, mostly at On Your Mark, and mentored anyone who was facing a situation with a child with disabilities,” her husband continued. “She was available and helped families through that life challenge. That was one of her strengths. She couldn’t say no to anyone.”

Daughter, Amanda Straniere, noted:

“My mom was an incredible woman and I honestly don’t know how she did it all. I grew up watching her direct shows, work, volunteer, serve on boards, PTAs, committees... all while raising three kids — one with complex special needs. She cherished her family, which went beyond blood and included the friends she made over the course of her remarkable life. She faced each day with strength and determination, but also warmth and support. She instilled in me the values of giving back and community and of keeping an open heart and mind. My dad, brothers, my daughter Abby, and I lost a beacon, but we will always have her light inside of us, helping to guide the way.”

“Thank you for fighting for so long for all of us,” said her son, Nicholas. “You were a brave, kind, passionate soul who never took no for an answer, even at the end. You put your everything into the world you built around you through the theater, the temple, and all the lives you’ve touched along the way. You treated many people as your second family, and gave generously of your time and self. Words could never express the gratitude Dad, Amanda, Greg, Abby, and I have. You always believed in us and pushed us to do better for ourselves. Thank you for your positive attitude, your beautiful smile, and your bubbly caring personality. I love you, and will always miss you.”

Mrs. Straniere volunteered with Staten Island Civic Theatre and the Staten Island Children’s Theatre, the Looking Glass Players, the Shakespearean Theatre, the Jewish Community Center, Center Stage Productions, Staten Island Summer Musical Theatre, Temple Israel Players, Seaview Playwrights Theatre and Neverland Theatre.

A recipient of numerous honors and awards, she was presented with the First Generation Award from the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC, and received the Chai Society Award from Wagner College

CONDOLENCES POUR IN:

Former Borough President James Molinaro: ”I was sorry to hear of Jennifer’s passing, an asset to our borough who dedicated her life to the betterment of people. She was an asset in the preparation of my State of the Borough, was talented and a true professional. She left Staten Island a better place.”

Deputy Borough President Ed Burke: “Jennifer was a multi-talented icon of the theatre community and an irreplaceable friend and mentor. She radiated warmth and there are many whose talents flowered under her guidance. As stage manager at the State of the Borough addresses and ceremonies, she was a Rock of Gibraltar. She made everyone in her magical theatre world look good. Governors, mayors, senators and borough presidents took her cues. We are grateful she was dedicated to the arts, education and causes. Her starring role was as mother and grandmother. My heart goes out to her family. She never missed her mark, but we will always miss her.”

Fred Cerullo, former city councilman and president and CEO of the Grand Central Partnership: “Jennifer was smart, hard working, talented and loving. I felt like family when I was with her and amazed how she balanced a career of community leader, wife, mom and volunteer. My favorite role was that of stage manager. No one could keep a cast of characters assembled like she did. Staten Island has lost a special friend and supporter. I’ve lost one I’ve had for over 35 years. My love, thoughts and prayers go to Phil and family now and always.”

Rachel Borenstein, president of the Staten Island Holocaust Center: I met Jennifer Straniere when attending the 2019 holiday party at home of the Wagner College President. I knew Judge Philip Straniere from our participation in the Chai Society at Wagner College. Jennifer was a kind lady and her work on various theater production e.g. director of facilities/production manager for the Department of Performing and Creative Arts, College of Staten Island  was legendary. Jennifer’s passing is a big loss to her family, friends and to the Staten Island community. She will be greatly missed.”

Bonnie Fritz, community leader and wife of CSI president, William Fritz: “Jennifer was the person who presided over the back story of nearly every event at CSI and on Staten Island. It was typical to hear panicked comments like ‘The video isn’t working, lights are flickering, where’s Jennifer?’ It feels like the lights have gone out. She was stationed at the steps at the Black Box Theater like a Greek muse guarding the theater and gathering tickets. As often as I’ve heard ‘It’s all about how you make people feel,’ that was Jennifer. Hard not to love her and think of Staten Island without her.”

William Fritz, president of CSI: “Jennifer has been part of the CSI family for many years. She earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Richmond College. She worked there and at the College of Staten Island, as instructor and performing arts technical manager, supporting music, drama and dance. She ran events and was a hard worker never hesitating to help. She will be missed by all.”

Karen O’Donnell, longtime friend and actress/photographer: “When Jennifer told me how sick she was, I never doubted her when she said she was going to get through, because she always knew how to get through. My husband Mickey Tennenbaum said: ‘If Jennifer isn’t here, how will any of us know how to do anything.’ She was an amazing director, stage manager, costumer, organizer, teacher, family woman, leader and mother. Though she was younger than some, she was our theater ‘mother.’ She fed, dressed, disciplined and encouraged. She listened and never judged. We will never feel as safe as when she was with us.”

Al Lambert, musical director: “Jennifer was a friend and colleague, a legend in the theatrical world. Loaded with talent in so many aspects, she spread her talent and generosity around to so many in words and actions. She was my buddy and friend. I’m going to miss her on so many levels. God speed!”

Jodi Siegel, longtime friend and board member of Temple Israel: “Jennifer was the institutional memory and heart of Temple Israel. She was a member of the theatre group, a youth group advisor, teacher and driving force behind our Passover Community Seder, ‘Break the Fast’ and co-chair of the Temple Gala. She never said ‘no’ and pulled out her checkbook and asked, ‘How much do you need?’ She was the perfect person to serve as financial secretary. In her last days, she was concerned about record keeping. To say that no one will fill her shoes is an understatement. Her loss leaves a gaping hole in the heart of Temple Israel’s family.”

Charlie Greinsky, longtime friend: “Jennifer’s husband came home numerous times to find items missing, a couch or his clothes. Jennifer borrowed them for a play or event. She was a loving person. Will miss her Fourth of July parties. How tragic to leave us on the eve of their 50th wedding anniversary.”

Veronica Carle, longtime friend: “Jennifer was more than a friend, she was the perfect combination of big sister and mom. I’ve laughed and cried with her. And yesterday I got to sit quietly with her for a few minutes. I cherish every memory I have of Jennifer.”

Philita Wondolowski, longtime friend, “Jennifer was a friend who would give the shirt off her back. She was a force of nature and will be missed. Our families shared friendship since the late 70s. From working with community theater, to Memorial Day BBQ’s that celebrated her eldest Gregory’s birthday, to dinners and celebrations. My youngest, Andrew, 30, wrote a letter: ‘For always putting the needs of others first.. For traveling with a battery-powered drill... For selfless devotion..Words fail to describe how much you mean.. My only regret is that I didn’t get to tell you in person, myself.’ "

Hoteliers, Lois and Richard Nicotra: “We met Jennifer over 30 years ago, when Rich served as president on the Foundation Board of CSI. We had the honor and privilege of working with her when hosting the Daughters of St. Paul Concert more than 25 years ago at CSI. Jennifer was so-welcoming and accommodating. She was invaluable in helping in making the first one a success and it was the beginning of a 25-year run. We shared the love of cabaret. We’re sure she’s producing another hit show in heaven. We will miss her terribly. Our hearts go out to Judge Phil, Amanda and their entire family.”

Mrs. Straniere is survived by her husband Justice Philip Straniere of 50 years, her children, Gregory, Amanda Straniere and Nicholas, and a granddaughter, Abigail Hart, 6.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Harmon Home for Funerals, West Brighton. Visitation is Monday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.

A funeral service is set for Tuesday at Temple Israel Reform Congregation, Randall Manor, at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Ocean View Cemetery, Oakwood.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to On Your Mark, Temple Israel Reform Congregation and the Jennifer Straniere Scholarship Fund at the College of Staten Island.