Galina Zilberstein

Galina Zilberstein of Brookline, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2025, at the Chestnut Park Assisted Living Memory Care, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. She is survived by her husband, Vladimir; her children, Genia and Anya; and her grandchildren, Miriam and August. She was predeceased by her parents, Isak and Freida, and brothers Leonid and Yury.

Galina was born in Moscow, Russia, on March 30, 1946, and grew up in the USSR, earning a Master’s degree in Materials Science. Fifty years ago, she made the courageous decision to emigrate to the United States, seeking new opportunities and a brighter future for her family. With determination and resilience, she built a remarkable life in her adopted homeland.

A consummate researcher, Galina dedicated twenty years of her career to groundbreaking studies in Materials Science. Her colleagues remember her sharp intellect, meticulous attention to detail, and collaborative spirit. After retiring early, she channeled her energy and compassion into work at the Waltham-based nonprofit Action for Post-Soviet Jewry for another twenty years.

Above all, Galina was a devoted mother to her children, whom she raised with unwavering love, wisdom, and encouragement. She instilled in them the values of hard work, education, and kindness, which had guided her own extraordinary journey from the Soviet Union to America.

Galina will be remembered for her wit, strength, hospitality, and her generous heart. She leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, service, and love that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Following a memorial service on September 29 at the Stanetsky Funeral Home, Galina was buried at Beth El Cemetery in West Roxbury. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to Action for Post-Soviet Jewry (actionpsj.org).