Cecile Levin
On December 28, 2012, devoted wife, mother, golfer and friend to many, Cecile Letz Levin passed away peacefully. Born and raised in Paterson, NJ, she was the youngest daughter of Rebecca and David Letz. Her childhood and early years in Paterson would continue to play an important role in her life as she maintained her circle of childhood friends that came to an end with her death at 89 years old. A ‘career girl’ in New York City in the 1940’s where she was introduced to her soon to be husband, an aspiring executive Cyrus Levin, with whom she would share the next 54 years of her life. They lived and thrived in Clifton, NJ, from 1946 until moving to Cherry Hill in 1968 and later Marlton. After Cy’s death, and for the past 10 years, she has enjoyed the loving companionship of Dr. Marty Godell. As a team, Cele and Marty led an active social life and were pillars of the social scene. Cele and Marty were a perfect pair of active nonagenarians having just celebrated the holiday season on Friday December 16. They were at the Ritz Theatre for a simulcast of Aida from the Met where Cele suffered a stroke.
Everyone who knew her appreciated her skills as a cook and baker, and her sharp opinions and grasp of current events and politics. No bowl of matzoh ball soup was complete without a political discourse. But it was her dedication to her children’s education and upbringing that is her true legacy. She is survived by her children, David, Barbara, and Arthur Levin, their respective spouses (Donna, Michael and Mandy), devoted nephew Shelby Notkin, along with 4 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Her marriage and convictions are a lifelong inspiration to her children and their strong marriages.
A golfer for many years, she was a regular at Medford Lakes Country Club where she enjoyed the game. Finally, she had style. She knew what she liked and had an eye for timeless fashion that was admired by all. A journey through photo albums demonstrates that the fashion statements she made in the 50’s and 60’s are still relevant today. As her ties to Paterson faded away, she became part of a tight knit social circle at the Weston Club. Her companionship will be sorely missed at the Weston club group breakfasts, dinners, card games and exercise classes. She lived life well and left life doing what she loved surrounded by friends. This is something we all would like to have said about us. Rest in peace, Mom.
No services are planned; a celebration of life will be held at a later date.