To the love of my life—my other mom, and the woman I was privileged enough to call my grandmother. The world has lost a gem like no other. The epitome of a lady—I hope I can one day be blessed enough to have half of the grace, poise and class that you exuded for 96 years. I will always cherish the time I lived with you, and those memories that will remain in my mind forever. I could do no wrong in your eyes and what an honor it was to experience that kind of unconditional love that only a grandmother can give. My biggest cheerleader, no one else could make me feel as invincible as you did. I’m not sure what I ever did to deserve you, but I’m so happy I was fortunate enough to have you in my life. You’re finally with my grandfather after all this time—how happy he must be. You had countless stories of our time together but the one I always remember you telling is of when I was a baby and you would take me for walks in the stroller. You said when you would get to a crosswalk, you would take me out and hold me as we crossed because if a car was going hit, it would have to take us both since you couldn’t live without me. Not sure how I’m going to live without you now but I know you’ll give me the strength to do so. You’ll be with me always Babe. To say I love you would be an understatement. 

Dearest Babe,

I have this distant memory, vague/balmy, in a sepia tone, like old memories are: Palomar Airport Road; Burgers and fries and waiting for Mama to pick us up. Who knows why Babe alone, the grandmother of my cousins, an in-law, had us two little Afghan babies by her side... But this was normal with Babe; She was our other grandmother.

To attempt to encompass how kind, open, and amazing you were, and how you made people feel, is a challenge indeed.  How grateful Yousuf and I are to have had you in our lives! Thank you for valuing my mind and my voice, as well as my heart.

We were your, "kids by osmosis." And wow, was it such a treat! You just didn't know how to be selfish. You offered your time, your space, and love to your family's family, and you were proud of us. 

Memories of you showing me your beautiful Torah, and sharing photos and stories of your life as a social worker impacted my studies and work; you helped send me to Washington DC and encouraged my passions.

Your words! "Dolly/Love Bug," and I can hear how you would say "Sammy Girl," "Yousi Lovey," "Let me tell you, I just love you." The excitement and love in your voice when you spoke to Hannah and Jack or Les any of your kiddos. I hope I can be like that with my kids and grandkids, no matter their age.

One of my favorite memories, I will cherish forever, is your relationship with my Granna and Papa. We can only be so lucky in life, to have a friendship like that. With hearts and minds as open as the ocean, and real commitment to each other's well being and happiness. Fingers crossed, I can emulate your love for each other in my own lifetime.

How could we deserve you! Let it be known, we love you so much Babe... Shirley Jaan Qand (" Shirley Dearest," what my Mom called her). Thank you for being you.

Your impact will last and last. I will miss our posh appetizers-only lunches at Roppongi's, or you acting like me bringing you a diet coke was a good gift. Bless you, Babe <3

Rest In Power 

Dear Babe, How lucky I feel that you were such a special and important part of my childhood. I will forever be grateful for our La Jolla visits and sleepovers at your magical home (a place with a dreaminess I still talk and think about today) and every other adventure. Thank you for forever being so loving, fun, so welcoming, so warm.. for your friendship with our grandma.. for making us feel like your grandchildren too...  all of it! You were very loved and will be truly missed, but will still always be with us. xxxx

Uncle Bennett, Gigi, Hannah, and Jack - 
You had one beautiful mother, mother-in-law, grandmother. We love her forever! Thank you for sharing her with us :) 
Love, Zoë xxxx

Dear Babe, 

You welcomed us to your family and called us your "bonus kids". I felt your affection at every visit and every phone call. Your home was a place of welcome for my family - and a beautiful place to spend time together. What a friend you were to my mother and Jon Agha!  I loved hearing about your airport drop-offs and pick-ups and your lunch dates.  You were truly buddies.  I still enjoy the gifts you gave me, but your greatest gift is making me feel valued.  Your passion for life and family is an example I want to be guided by.   I will remember your sparkle, grace and love for life and for the people in your life.  Dear Babe, rest in peace.  I miss you but you are in my heart, always. Love, Laila

Dear Bennett, Gina, Jack and Hannah, please accept our heartfelt sympathy on the passing of beloved Mrs. Shirley Ladenheim . May the love, prayers and support of your family and friends bring you comfort during this most difficult time. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Love, Mariam, Haris, Neela, Dylan Baha

Babe, you were my second mother, my best friend  and loved me like your own daughter. I have loved you from the moment I saw you for the first time  at Church’s Chicken in Scottsdale, AZ...you gave me the biggest and warmest hug and kissed my face. I wished to be your daughter-in-law at that moment and God answered my prayers. 

You became my best ally, my loving mother and someone that I can always lean on through difficult times in my life...you supported me in whatever decision I made even if you did not agree with me. Your home was always my home, your closet was my closet, your car was my car...no matter what I needed or what I asked for, your response was always “it’s yours, honey”.  And everything you offered me so generously, you offered them to my entire family, extended family and friends too.

I called you several times a day to have a good laugh or to share a story or talk about the latest fashion or interior design trends. You had an impeccable taste and an eye for beauty and detail...you saw life through the same lense. 

We all know that you didn’t care for food or cats, but, you loved my cooking and raved  about my spaghetti and tolerated our cats because they were our cats...in your eyes, we never did anything wrong and you avoided any confrontation or to cause any hurt feelings...you surrounded yourself with beauty and love. I could write volumes about your kindness, generosity, unconditional love, your inner beauty and the importance of your presence in my life.

Everyone who knew Babe has a “Babe Story” and fond memories.

Babe, I was the luckiest girl to be your “other daughter” for the past 37 years and will always keep you in my heart right next my mother and my two sisters.  

YOU MADE MY LIFE BEAUTIFUL AND I LOVE YOU FOREVER, MY BABE!

OBITUARY

Shirley Marglis Ladenheim

May 28, 1924 – July 30, 2020

Forest Park The Woodlands Funeral Home & Cemetery

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Shirley Marglis Ladenheim

GARDEN OF BETH SHALOM SECTION 5