Betty Lilian Frankel

Betty Lilian Frankel passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026 at the age of 97. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa to Dora (Davis-Posimensky) and Charles Silberman, Betty was the cherished wife of Dr. Freddy Frankel.

During World War II, Betty and Fred met at a dance for returning soldiers, kindling an enviable romance that endured for more than 70 years.

As the matriarch and anchor to an ever-expanding family, Betty was an exceptional mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. With elegance and style, she mentored and inspired generations of women. Betty was cherished by many, especially her closest friend of 93 years, Lenore Lipworth; cousin Buzzy Axelrod; and “family by choice,” Joan Leibovich.

Betty was a preschool educator and an avid florist, who was deeply involved in volunteer work for many years at Temple Israel in Boston. In her fifties, she completed her education, receiving a BA in Early Childhood Education from Simmons College.

A master cook and baker, Betty readily passed down her recipes for honey and chocolate cakes. She was an inveterate solver of jigsaw and crossword puzzles and an avid reader of mysteries. An amazing knitter, Betty also designed children’s sweaters that have been proudly worn by generations.

Betty will be remembered most for her loving and generous heart, manifested in her gentle kindness to all in her orbit.

She is survived by her children, Neville Frankel (Marlene Ackerman Nusbaum), Isabel Frankel Rachlin (Jeffrey Rachlin), and Dr. Allan Frankel (Terri Christensen Frankel). She also leaves 9 beloved grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to The Lasell Benevolent Fund, 120 Seminary Ave, Auburndale, MA 02466. Betty’s family is deeply grateful to her caregivers and staff at Lasell Village for their attentive and fond care.

A private graveside service was held.