Shirley (Epstein) Levine

Shirley passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025, at the age of 94. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, step-grandmother, great-grandmother, teacher, and community leader whose warmth, intellect, and dedication touched the lives of many.

Born in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, on September 18, 1930, Shirley grew up in a five-story walkup, the child of immigrant parents who worked hard to build a life in New York City for their two daughters. Shirley earned her bachelor’s degree from Brooklyn College and later in life pursued a master’s in education from C.W. Post.

Shirley met her husband, Mark, while working at a summer camp, and they married at the age of 21. Together they built a loving home and raised their children, Alan (Iris), Betsy (Luke) and Ruth (John). Shirley was also a devoted grandmother to Jake (Mareike), Kori (Tim), Melanie (Natalie), Daniel, and Jordana, step-grandmother to Jenny (Christian), great grandmother to Elodie, and aunt to Heather (Will).

A passionate advocate for education and civic engagement, Shirley served as president of her local chapter of the League of Women Voters, president of the PTA, and vice president of her Temple. She was also a co-founder of the Bethpage Creative Workshop, a supplemental weekend educational program that introduced children to subjects as diverse as rocketry, anatomy, drama, and chess.

In her professional life, Shirley was a cherished first-grade teacher, known as the first choice among parents due to the dedication and extra effort she put into her students’ success.

After losing her husband 19 years ago, Shirley found strength in forging new relationships and becoming a leader of her bereavement group. Twelve years ago, she moved from Long Island to her final home at Lasell Village in Newton, Massachusetts, where she actively participated in chorus, classes, and book club, started a walking group, and made lasting friendships.

Shirley was predeceased by Mark, the love of her life and husband of 54 years, their dear daughter Betsy, and Shirley’s beloved big sister Reneé.

Donations in Shirley’s memory to any charity will be gratefully acknowledged. Shirley’s passion for art and education can be supported by donations to: New England Foundation for the Arts www.nefa.org

OR Toronto Arts Foundation www.torontoartsfoundation.org/home