News Summary
Eileen Friedman Cersonsky, a cherished figure in the Houston community, passed away peacefully at the age of 95. Known for her devotion to family, community, and the arts, Eileen’s vibrant personality and numerous contributions to local organizations made her a beloved member of her neighborhood. She leaves behind her sons, granddaughter, and a legacy of love and service. A funeral service will be held at Congregation Emanu El, honoring her lifelong dedication to her family and community.
Houston – Eileen Friedman Cersonsky, a beloved member of the Houston community, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, at the age of 95 after a prolonged illness. Surrounded by her loving family, her passing marks the end of a life devoted to family, community, and the arts.
Born on July 21, 1930, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Eileen was the first child of Nat and Thelma Friedman. The family later moved to Tyler, Texas, and ultimately settled in Houston, where Eileen grew up. She attended local schools, including Roberts Elementary, Lanier Junior High, and graduated from Lamar High School in 1948. Eileen pursued higher education at The University of Texas, where she earned a degree in Drama in 1952. During her college years, she became an active member of the Alpha Epsilon Phi sorority and continued to support the organization throughout her life.
Eileen is survived by her two sons, M.H. “Butch” Cersonsky and his wife Sandra, and James Andrew Cersonsky and his wife Kelly. She also leaves behind her cherished granddaughter, Lindsey, and her sister, Muriel Mendell, alongside numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. Eileen was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard “Swede” Cersonsky, and her parents.
Following her graduation from college, Eileen took up a teaching position at a drama school in Houston before her engagement. After marriage, she and her husband lived in various neighborhoods before finally settling in Tanglewood in the 1970s. Eileen became a prominent figure in her community, actively participating at Congregation Emanu El, where she showcased her theatrical talents in numerous productions from the 1950s through the 1970s. This congregation was a significant part of her family’s history, as they were founding members in the 1940s. She also contributed to the Temple’s Sisterhood for many years and engaged with the Parent-Teacher Organizations at local schools, including Longfellow Elementary and Beth Yeshurun Day School.
Known for her vibrant personality, Eileen was involved in various organizations, supporting her husband’s contributions to Congregation Emanu El, 7 Acres Jewish Senior Care Services, and Israel Bonds. Her love for social activities was evident in her participation in Mah Jong and Bridge games with friends. Eileen enjoyed fine dining experiences, often visiting restaurants such as Tony’s, Brennan’s, Mortons, and Kenny and Ziggy’s with family.
A passionate cook, Eileen was known for her signature meals, which included Swiss Steak, Meatballs and Spaghetti, Broiled Chicken, and Lasagna. She had a love for travel, having visited numerous destinations including Paris, London, India, and China. Shopping at places like Sakowitz’s, Nordstrom’s, and Neiman Marcus was also a favorite pastime, especially when she would accompany her sister-in-law, Anne Feuer, for shopping trips in New York.
Throughout her sons’ childhood, Eileen was a devoted sports mom, attending Butch’s basketball games and James’ baseball matches. Her impeccable style and attention to appearance were well-known, and she maintained a routine of weekly hair salon appointments. Dancing with her husband brought her great joy, and her granddaughter, Lindsey, became a source of immense pride, especially when Eileen embraced her role as a grandmother at the age of 80.
The Cersonsky family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Martin White and the medical staff who provided compassionate care over the years, along with Bobbie Johnson and her team for their outstanding support during Eileen’s declining health.
A funeral service honoring Eileen Friedman Cersonsky will be held at 12:30 PM on September 2, 2025, at Congregation Emanu El in Houston, officiated by Rabbis Pamela Silk and Roy Walter. Following the service, interment will take place at Emanu El Memorial Park in Houston. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Congregation Emanu El – Cersonsky Cemetery Beautification Fund.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Eileen Friedman Cersonsky
- Wikipedia: Houston
- Jewish Herald-Voice: Lindsey Ruth Cersonsky
- Google Search: Eileen Cersonsky
- Legacy: Henry Mendell
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
