Beverly Magida

Beverly was born on May 22, 1943, in Columbus, Ohio to Celia Gosman Solove and Al Solove. She spent a happy childhood in Columbus, Ohio, with her family and older sister Joy Solove (Rubin), whom she adored and lost to cancer in 1990. Beverly graduated from Bexley High School and The Ohio State University; she spent many of her high school years as a cheerleader, even becoming head cheerleader her senior year, and remained a lifelong Buckeye fan, even when her daughter attended the University of Michigan and became a rival Wolverine. If nothing else, Beverly was loyal.

Immediately after college, Beverly moved to the Big Apple and built a fulfilling and fun career in the retail industry, working for both Lord & Taylor and Bloomingdale’s at various times as a buyer and merchandise manager. She travelled frequently to Paris and remembers fondly her European travels, stays at the Plaza Athénée and meals and pedicures with friends and colleagues. While working and living in NYC (from 1965-1977), Beverly met her husband of more than 25 years and the father of her two children, Stephen Magida. In 1977, soon after her son Danny’s birth, they moved to Stamford, Connecticut, where Jennifer was born and they raised their family.

Beverly was a devoted and engaged mother, and was committed to every aspect of her children’s lives, as a confidant, friend, chauffeur, volunteer for their schools, and devoted sporting event and dance recital attendee. She was always considered a fun and cool mom, and was beloved by everyone she met (except, perhaps, those who dared to get on her bad side.) When Jennifer went to college, Beverly returned to the workforce as a fundraiser and event organizer (including the now annual SCRABBLE® Challenge) for causes she championed, and worked as an employee at Literacy Volunteers of America and Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County.

Beverly had more friends than we can count, and most who met her loved her, drawn to her warmth and smile, intellect, and laughter. Beverly cared more for others than for herself, and found joy in the happiness of others. Most importantly, she was grateful for and treasured all of the relationships in her life. Most recently, her world revolved around her children and three beautiful granddaughters, whom she cherished and who adored her. There was no grandma better than our Gaga, or Grandma Bevie. She showed endless love and generosity to, and spent hours doting over, her grandchildren, whether in person or on hours-long Facetimes or Zooms. Beverly’s light will be carried forward by Celia, Ruth and Eloise.

Beverly will be remembered for, among other things, her love of puzzles and games (Bridge, Mahjong, Canasta and Jeopardy). She was also a wonderfully committed artist, taught herself to knit just about anything, and loved going to the theater, dance shows or the symphony with her friends and family. She was exceptionally organized, an excellent shopper, and phenomenal planner. All of those who loved her will desperately miss her intellect, wit, love, support and caring advice.

Beverly is survived by her children Danny (Rachel) and Jennifer, and grandchildren Celia, Ruth and Eloise.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to New York Peace Institute, where Jennifer works and was endlessly supported by Beverly, or Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County.