Ina Friedman Light passed away in Franklin, Tennessee, her home for the past eight years, on September 13, 2026, at age 92. Born and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, Ina graduated from Montclair State University and later earned her master’s degree in education. A talented artist and pianist, she brought creativity and exuberance into everything she did. For over 30 years as an educator in Fair Lawn, NJ, she taught third, fourth, and fifth graders at Milnes and Warren Point elementary school and later challenged herself to teach history at Fair Lawn High School.

Ina’s life outside the classroom was equally rewarding. She was an active member of the Fair Lawn Jewish Center, volunteering as an arts and crafts teacher for their afterschool program and lending her unique skill for writing parody songs to create timely educational shows for the American Jewish Congress.

She was an avid reader, historian, trivia expert, and enjoyed board games and the New York Times Crossword puzzle. Over the years her original watercolor paintings were displayed in libraries, private, and juried shows throughout New Jersey. She often ventured into York City to see Broadway theater with her family and friends and could play and sing a multitude of show tunes and songs from Gershwin to Cole Porter, to Sondheim. She continued to play piano into her 91st year of life, entertaining the residents of Somerby Franklin Independent & Assisted Living. Everyone who knew her benefited from her kindness, warmth, wit, and genuine broad smile.

Ina was the devoted wife of the late Harold Light, mother of Abrey Light (Susan) of New Hope PA; Mitchell Light (Karen), of Henderson, NV; and Sara Light (Dan Arena) of Franklin, TN; beloved grandmother of Mia Erica, Michael (and Charlotte), Jason (and Amanda), Rebecca (and Mike), Abigail (and Ess), and great-grandmother of Goldie Mara and Madison Skye, and a beloved cousin and friend to so many.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.