Shirley and Leo (and Sam and Lottie Wallach) were dear and longtime comrades in the struggle for social justice.  Mainly, in their case, in the field of education.  They practiced what they preached – quality education for all – in their classrooms. They helped establish the vibrant Teachers Union, lobbied for good working conditions for teachers, supplies for their classrooms, extra help for children who needed it.  Because of their advocacy they each, to varying extent, ran afoul of witch-hunting committees.  They never wavered.  I will remember their courage and consistent efforts for the common good.  

Here is a picture I took at a visit to a local mall during one of my last visits with them in California.

My mother was a close friend of Shirley's - they were both kindergarten teachers in Brooklyn and shared political views as well.  Shirley was an angel as was her husband. He could talk all night and you'd learn so much! I used to see him every year at the Left Forum where he manned a table for a Science magazine. Our families both moved upstate and found houses not far from each other. My mother admired Shirley's gift with plants and my mother became a master gardener, probably inspired by Shirley! It's been a while since my mother passed - I think Shirley and my mother traveled together (to China?) with Elderhostel. Shirley loved people and loved learning as did my parents. I'm living upstate now and occasionally remember Shirley's account of a bear in the garage! She once gave me a cutting of a certain vine - it's still growing. If I can find pictures, I'll post them. I've just passed this sad news to Judy Bellin, another friend of theirs who now lives in North Carolina. Rest in peace dear Shirley.

I was so very lucky to call her my Great Aunt Shirley. I had so many happy memories visiting her home to not only see her, but my Great Uncle Leo, too. My many happy memories included going hiking, apple picking, going to fairs/festivals, going to 4 Brothers Pizza, pancake breakfast at the local firehouse, playing games, sitting in her backyard, hearing her & Leo’s stories, her & Leo’s generous, loving, & caring hospitality, & all the wonderful advice. She was one of the kindest people I ever met & I was lucky enough to call her family! RIP so glad you are with your love again! I’ll always remember the advice Leo gave to a happy marriage & it was simply 2 words..Yes Dear! 

Shirley and Leo were family friends and Brooklyn neighbors in the early 60s, years when she would take me to see puppet shows with her niece.  Shirley was a beloved Kindergarten teacher at my elementary school PS 200 where she was a tall and commanding but very kind and reassuring presence.  I loved visiting her apt which felt different from most of the others on Haring St,  filled with books and music, marionettes and interesting artifacts, and of course Leo's pipe. They were true educators and intellectuals. We last visited them about 25 years ago at their home in the Berkshires, where they were wonderful hosts and tour guides. How wonderful that she hit the century mark.  My sincere condolences to Martin and David and families. 

OBITUARY

Shirley Wallach Auerbach

May 13, 1919 – July 11, 2019

Pacific View Mortuary & Memorial Park

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