Joel Friedman

Joel Friedman, 86, of Brookline, MA passed away surrounded by loved ones on March 2, 2023. He leaves behind three sons: David and his wife Robin, Peter and his wife Pam, and James and his wife Ginny. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren: Harry, Ben, Hallie, Jack, Cayla, Samantha, Will, Anna and Julia. He was predeceased by his wife Barbara. Joel was born on June 13, 1936 to Morris and Fagale Friedman in the Bronx, NY. As a teenager, Joel was selected to attend a new neighborhood charter school. This opportunity led him to Williams College, where he graduated in 1957. Thereafter, he met his wife Barbara, the love of his life, to whom he was married for over forty years. He then went on to receive his Masters from City College New York, and his PhD in Clinical Psychology from Texas Tech University while raising three sons and serving in the Army Reserves. Joel’s professional life was defined by hard work and success beyond what anyone could have imagined. He had a busy private practice, co-authored several books, and served on the faculties of Harvard Medical School and Mass General Hospital as a Clinical Instructor in Psychology in the Department of Psychiatry. He loved his work and especially loved helping those in need. To Joel, family meant everything. He and his older brother Sol had an incredibly close bond and remained best of friends their entire lives. He and Barbara were inseparable and a constant source of support for their sons. When they weren’t attending one of the kids’ sporting events, they loved to spend time with the family on Martha’s Vineyard. When Barbara fell ill, he cared for her and never left her side. Anyone who knew Joel appreciated his kindness, warm smile and big heart. His eyes never twinkled so brightly as when he spent time with his grandchildren, whom he cherished. He will be sorely missed. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brookline Food Pantry, 210 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA 02446, where Joel volunteered after his retirement. Funeral service Sunday, March 5, at 11:00 a.m. at Stanetsky Memorial Chapels, 1668 Beacon Street, BROOKLINE.