Gale Lee Friedman

Gale Lee Friedman was born on August 27, 1948, in the Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, across from Ebbets Field, to her parents Eddie and Bertha Epstein. At age 8, Gale moved with her family, including her younger brother Michael, “out to the country” to Staten Island, New York, where Gale spent the remainder of her childhood.

Gale was a smart, social and driven young woman. She was a bright student and showed clear signs of leadership, especially when it came to instructing her younger brother Michael around the house. At age 15, Gale started college at Oswego State University in Oswego, New York, transferring two years later to Wagner College in Staten Island, New York, where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree. Gale then attended the College of Staten Island where she received her Master’s in Education.

Gale fell in love with her beloved Jeffrey Friedman, a former high school classmate, after reuniting with him during their college years. The two “kept company” until they married on August 16, 1969, in Brooklyn, New York. Gale soon began her career as an educator, teaching first grade in Staten Island’s public schools.

Gale and Jeff were living in Staten Island when their first son, Josh, was born in 1973. Their second son, Craig, was born three years later. In 1977, Gale and Jeff courageously moved from Staten Island to the distant land of Texas. After they moved to the Dallas area in 1981, their third son, Robert, was born.

Gale was a devoted educator by trade. Early in her career she taught preschool at the Jewish Community Center in Dallas, and then completed her career as both teacher and principal at preschools in Dallas and Houston. In between, Gale owned an educational toy store and also spent years affecting the lives of senior citizens in the Dallas Jewish community as the director of seniors programming. Outside of work, Gale was also an active member of the Jewish community.

Gale’s greatest passion was reserved for her family and close friends, who surrounded her for all her days. Her love for her three sons was evident in the opportunities she worked tirelessly to afford them. She encouraged them to travel abroad, work hard at their academics, and marry women as strong as she.

Gale always opened her home to her family, friends and the community at large, hosting international exchange students and new members of the local community. As a mother, wife, sister, and daughter, she inspired honesty, integrity, and courage.

Diagnosed with cancer in early 2011, Gale’s strength and grace throughout her illness was supported by her husband Jeffrey, and her close circle of family and friends in Texas, California, Massachusetts, New York, and across the world.

On August 16, 2014, Gale passed away at home, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 65.

Gale is survived by her husband Jeffrey; sons Josh (Stephanie), Craig (Erin) and Robert (Shemariah); grandchildren Joe, Grant, Noah, Quinn and Matanyah; parents Eddie and Bertha Epstein; and brother Michael (Cynthia). Funeral services will occur on Tuesday, August 26, 2014, 10am, at Temple Emanu-El in Dallas.

Gale’s presence continues to grow. Her love, passion, and convictions thrive with those who loved her the most. Zikhronah livrakha, may her memory be for a blessing. Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society and Temple Emanu-El.