Eileen Ackerman, 69, passed away on Friday, August 26, 2016. She was born on May 27, 1947 in Jersey City to Frances and Arthur Ackerman. In 1969 she received a BS degree from Rutgers University and moved to Monmouth County after accepting a social work position at Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital. Eileen received her MSW from Rutgers University in 1976 and was appointed the Director of Social Work for the hospital shortly thereafter, a position she held until the hospital closed in 1998. In addition to her work at Marlboro she was an adjunct professor of Sociology at both Brookdale Community College and Monmouth University. For the remainder of her career she worked for the Monmouth County Mental Health Association providing counseling and supportive services to families. Eileen was placed on this earth to be a Social Worker, a profession she loved. She was well respected by the community, her staff, colleagues and clients. Throughout her life she was a tireless advocate for the mentally ill and their families with a particular focus on those suffering from chronic illness. Eileen found joy in the simple things of life. She loved decorating her Victorian house at Christmas, summer days sitting on her porch, swimming in Vermont’s lakes, flea markets and farmer’s markets, cooking for family and friends, celebrations, giving gifts. She’d be the first one in line to help you with a crisis. She was generous to a fault willing to share anything she had even if she needed it. Her door was always open for you and there was always a place for you at her table. She never complained even when she had good cause to do so. Eileen was predeceased by her brother Donald. She leaves behind her nephews Jason and David Ackerman whom she loved beyond all measure and who loved and cared for her in return, her devoted sister-in-law Judy Ackerman and her lifelong friends who will miss her dearly. A memorial gathering will be held at Damiano Funeral Home 191 Franklin Ave in Long Branch on Wednesday, August 31 from 2 pm until the time of the service at 4 pm. Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, PO Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38101. The family invites you to write a letter of condolence or share a story by selecting the appropriate tab.