When I met Harriette Ellis, she had finished her second stint as editor of the Long Beach Jewish Chronicle and sought to write for the fledgling Orange County Jewish Life, now Jlife. She became a cherished mentor and friend.
At 81, Harriette had been a writer, editor, publicist, graphic artist, and activist, but she still had so much to give. I figured that her energy level stemmed from the fact that she was a leap year baby.
Harriette, who passed away 5 weeks shy of her 100th (or 25th) birthday, decided on her career early in life. She worked on school newspapers in middle school, high school, and college, and served as art editor of her college yearbook. She majored in art and English at Memphis State University, University of Alabama, Memphis Art Academy, and Chouinard Institute. She also worked toward a master’s degree at UCLA.
While living in Albuquerque, New Mexico, she edited and wrote for a magazine. After moving to Long Beach, she worked as a freelance graphic designer and copywriter. Harriette became editor of the Jewish community newspaper (now titled Jewish Community Chronicle) in 1979, She also wrote for newspapers published by the California Apparel News Group in Los Angeles and Valley Magazine, which covers the San Fernando Valley.. Working in public relations, she represented clients of some of the top restaurants in Los Angeles. Harriette returned to the Jewish Community Chronicle published in Long Beach for 16 more years. During her years at the Chronicle, she received 38 awards.
As a member of NCJW (National Council of Jewish Women), she edited the newsletter for 10 years while serving on the board. She served on the Jewish Studies Program Leadership Board at CSULB for 20 years. Harriette joined League of Women Voters, and additionally, spent much time volunteering at Temple Israel, helping to start its Social Action Committee.
Harriette leaves behind three daughters and two grandchildren and a host of friends. She inspired everyone she knew.