Isabel "Billie" Levine

Many say Billie was "a force to be reckoned with". At 5 foot tall, less than 100 pounds, her presence was always keenly felt. In her professional life those that worked with her said that when she entered a room, her aura would proceed her by a few minutes. She was always a brilliant conversationalist, intellectual, voracious reader, and lover of the arts. But most importantly she was a devoted Daughter, Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Friend who loved her family and many friends dearly.

Growing up in somewhat modest circumstance in the Bensonhurst section of Brooklyn, New York, Billie enjoyed a great deal of love and attention as an only child. She was surrounded by many aunts, uncles, and cousins, many of whom lived within walking distance. She was taught to appreciate The Arts and Education at a very young age. She took piano lessons and was exposed to the wonderful world of the Broadway Theater. Although she was born Isabel Feldman and called "Iz" or "Isabel" by most of her family, everyone else called her Billie. Others called her Isabel at their own peril.

Billie excelled at academics and held a BA in Philosophy and Physical Therapy, Masters in Physical Therapy, and Masters in Public Health Administration. Her deep passion for her work was most evident in her relentless love and devotion to United Cerebral Palsy of Suffolk County, New York where she worked for many years as a Physical Therapist and eventually as Director of Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy and as Clinical Coordinator of the New York Foundling.

Upon retirement, she moved to the Valley of the Sun with her husband Milton. She immersed herself in the community and quickly built a tribe of fabulous friends. Billie was a member of the Tempe Community Chorus for over a decade. She volunteered countless hours at Recording for the Blind, Talking Books Library, Hospice of the Valley, and Hadassah. Billie contributed to many political organizations, veteran support causes, and anything that involved social justice and consciousness. She taught us all to question everything while choosing to see the good in humanity. She frequented the symphony, opera and adored lunching and dining with her friends and family. Her signature drink was a Titos Martini up with a twist - NO VERMOUTH!

Billie is predeceased by her husband, Milton Levine and her parents, Jack and Rose Feldman. She is survived by her son, Brian Levine and Daughter - in- Law, Patricia Jalbert-Levine; Daughter, Stephanie Miriam Levine and grandchildren, Leigha Mason, (Jaclyn) Malie Mason, Lucas Levine and Robert (LB) Silver.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Billie's home on June 22, 2019 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Billie's honor to Hospice of the Valley, Dobson Home.

She will be greatly missed and her power lives on in all of us!