Brandeis Magazine

Claudette Charbonneau ’57, of Nanuet, New York, on June 16. An activist for racial equality, peace, women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights, she was a retired instructor of English literature and women’s studies at colleges in New York and Finland, a co-author of three books, and a producer of documentary films on feminist and gay issues. Survived by life partner Patricia Lander, whose two children she helped raise, and two grandchildren.

Donald Michael Robbins ’57, G’12, of Providence, Rhode Island, on March 13. A Hasbro executive remembered for his devotion to family and good works, he gave his time to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island, Temple Emanu-El, the Jewish Federation of Rhode Island and Boston Lyric Opera, and ran more than one marathon. Survived by wife Esther, two sons and several grandchildren.

Ruth Jelinek Schapira ’57, Brandeis National Committee, of the Bronx, on Nov. 18. Deeply involved in New York’s cultural life through numerous volunteer activities, she was business manager of late husband Hans Schapira’s medical practice; served in the marketing department at the New York Philharmonic; and was a past president of the board at her Riverdale apartment building, the Whitehall. Survived by two children and six grandchildren.

Lawrence T. Thomas, MFA’57, of Port Townsend, Washington, on Aug. 2. A Juilliard-trained musician who served as head librarian at Seattle University, he enjoyed composing music, writing poetry and creating art. Survived by a son, two stepdaughters and four grandchildren.

Judith Rich Harris ’59, of Middletown, New Jersey, on Dec. 30. A psychologist specializing in child development, she sparked debate with her bestselling book “The Nurture Assumption: Why Children Turn Out the Way They Do” (1998), which argues that children are influenced more by their genes and peers than by their parents. Survived by husband Charles, two daughters and four grandchildren.