Sydelle Bloom, of Great Neck, died in her home in North Branford, CT on Oct. 30, 2006. She was 86. Sydelle was born in Brooklyn and attended James Madison High School where she began the volunteer work in social and political organizations that would bring her pleasure throughout her life. She then went on to attend Brooklyn College where she received her B.A. in Psychology, and then to Columbia University, Graduate School of Journalism where she earned a master's degree.

Sydelle worked as freelance writer for newspaper, radio and television. In addition, her background in psychology led her to work with those in need as a counselor to the physically and mentally handicapped, as a teacher to low-income adults at the College for Human Service, and a psychotherapist for patients in group and activity therapy at the North Shore University Hospital Psychiatric Day Treatment Center.

Sydelle's volunteer work was the cornerstone of her career. She was a dedicated and integral member of the Great Neck chapter of the League of Women Voters, as a discussion leader and resource person. She edited and revised the League's local Guide, "This is Great Neck." She was the vice-president of Education and Social Services for National Council of Jewish Women, with a chapter membership of more than 500.

Sydelle's smile and easy laugh were hard to miss, and the reason for them couldn't have been more important to her - other people. Friends from as far back as grade school were never forgotten, rather, they were cherished and their friendships were deepened through years of caring correspondence and visits. Once in Great Neck, her friends were the recipients of her fabulous dinner parties, her carefully-done watercolors, and her love. She was funny and thoughtful, a stylish dresser, and a kind, giving soul.

Sydelle is survived by her husband of 62 years, Murray Teigh Bloom, their two daughters, Ellen B. Lubell and son-in-law Leslie Byelas of Fairfield, CT, and Amy Bloom of Durham, CT, and her three grandchildren.