Portsmouth – Florence Bress Karp, 96, died Thursday, December 18, 2014 in her home.

A Norfolk native, lifelong educator and philanthropist, Florence Bress Karp was born on Feb 26, 1918. Florence earned her bachelor's degree from Longwood College, in secondary education, and began teaching at Woodrow Wilson High School. Shortly thereafter she met her husband of 44 years, Leonard G. Karp.

She was an active member of Temple Sinai and most recently Ohef Sholom and was a life member of Hadassah.

She was also very active in the community and volunteered at numerous organizations such as the Beth Sholom Home, Portsmouth General Hospital as well as many community outreach programs where she was able to continue her passion for enriching students' lives whether it be teaching illiterate children to read or assisting students in her solving various math problems.

She is survived by her son David L. Karp of Hummelstown, PA and two grandchildren, Rachelle Karp of Miami, FL and Michael Karp of Harrisburg, PA along with her brother Allyn Bress of Madison, WI.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to all her caregivers with especial consideration for her dearest friend and caretaker, Gaynette Floyd.

Graveside Funeral Services will be held at Gomley Chesed Cemetery, Sunday, December 21, 2014, at 1pm. The cemetery is located at the intersection of George Washington Highway and Frederick Blvd. in Portsmouth, VA. Rabbi Steinberg will officiate the service. Following the graveside service the family will be gathering at the Sheraton in Norfolk. Memorial donations may be made to Ohef Sholom or the charity of the donor's choice.