On Aug. 7, Madelyn Rubinstein Shapiro of North Bethesda, MD, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family. Preceded in death by her beloved husband of 54 years and love of her life, Herbert Shapiro, and her parents, Hyman S. and Ellen Steinhorn Rubinstein. Devoted mom of Margery (the late Joseph) Hoffman, Karen Shapiro and Dr. Debra Shapiro. Cherished grandma of Evan (Samantha) Hirschman, Ellen (David Owens) and Erica (David Grenaldo) Hoffman and Benjamin Hirschman. Dear sister of Roberta Rubinstein and adored aunt, cousin and friend to many.
Madelyn was born on Aug. 22, 1932, in Baltimore, MD. After she and Herb met in 1955, they became engaged after only 6 weeks and were married 4 months later. They moved to the Washington, D.C., area where they raised their family.
Madelyn’s passion for music was unlike any other. At only age 3, she played the violin and, at age 5, performed with her professionally trained violinist dad and pianist mom. She later switched to the piano. Blessed with perfect pitch, Madelyn was the accompanist for several local theatres and could transpose music “on the spot.” After graduating from the University of Maryland at age 20, she became a beloved teacher at Baltimore’s Public School 64. Years later, Madelyn wrote the Alma Mater song for Burnt Mills Elementary in Silver Spring, created their school chorus, and produced beautiful concerts.
Madelyn served as President of Women’s Division at the UJA Federation. She was on the boards of JSSA, WPAS and AICF. Throughout her lifetime, she wrote custom poetry and songs for all occasions that have become timeless gifts for family and friends. Maddie loved to entertain at home and provide sing alongs around her piano. A lifelong bridge player, classical concerts and theatre goer, avid reader and “sounding board” to many, Madelyn will be best remembered as a thoughtful and loving human being.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Dr. Herbert and Madelyn R. Shapiro Fund for the Frail Elderly at JSSA. Arrangements entrusted to Torchinsky Hebrew Funeral Home, 202-541-1001.