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MARILYN ABEL

1929 - 2020

MARILYN ABEL obituary, 1929-2020, Lexington, MA

BORN

1929

DIED

2020

MARILYN ABEL Obituary

ABEL, Marilyn Jacobs Founder of Special Needs Arts Programs Of Lexington, passed away peacefully on July 6, just before her 91st birthday, with her loving family by her side. Marilyn was a talented musician who shared her musicality with the world. She was a piano teacher and a classical singer. She taught music to young children for years in her Musical Mondays classes in Lexington. Marilyn received her M.ED. from Lesley College in Music Therapy later in life. Most notably, with her close friend Judy Goldner in 1981 she co-founded the Special Needs Arts Program (SNAP), a non-profit in Lexington that has created choruses and art programs for adults and teens with special needs. It is still thriving today. Marilyn is survived by her adoring daughter, Deborah Abel; her devoted son-in-law, Lee Perlman; beloved grandson, Caleb Perlman; her deeply loved sister, Harriet Abel; and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her husband, Irving R. Abel and her daughter, Elisa Abel. There will be a zoom celebration of her life. If you'd like details, please email [email protected] To honor Marilyn, you can make a contribution to the Special Needs Arts Fund (and you can also find out more about the wonderful organization she co-founded): http://www.snaparts.org/

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Published by Boston Globe from Jul. 9 to Jul. 10, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
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Jenny Staecker

March 15, 2024

Marilyn Abel was wonderful Piano Teacher and I was in her children group

Dick Conant

July 18, 2020

I was so fortunate to have worked with Marilyn in the Lexington Public Schools. She was such a loving, dedicated teacher who adored her students. Marilyn was one of those special people who lightened up the darkest day. I will miss her.

Barbara Ostrom

July 17, 2020

Marilyn was a joy to know. I first came to know her when we were teaching special needs teens at Lexington High School in the 80's. We quickly joined forces on social development activities for our students like picnics and local outings. When Marilyn discovered I also shared an interest in music, she quickly introduced me to her beloved Lexington Music Club. Later, I followed her enthusiasm as she and Judy Goldner formed the amazing SNAP (Special Needs Arts). We continued a friendship over the years, and I think of her as a wonderful mentor, professional, and family friend. You are missed dear Marilyn.

Christine McMorrow

July 13, 2020

I only knew her but briefly as a fellow patron of the BSO and wished I had been able to spend more time with her. Always upbeat, she was friendly and always smiling. My sincere condolences to her family. What a gift to the world she and Judy Goldner gave in establishing their special needs art and music program in Lexington.

David Sear

July 12, 2020

I was Mrs Abel's student not her teacher.

David Sear

July 12, 2020

I'm so sorry to hear Mrs Abel's passing, I had so much fun with her when I took piano lessons at her home when I was young.

Debbie Lewis

July 11, 2020

Debbie Lewis and family want to say thanks for all that she did.

Jackie Maida

July 10, 2020

To Debbie and Lee: I am so sorry to hear of your mothers passing. You were devoted children to her and she taught you to love deeply. She will always be with you. I havent seen you for so long. Not since Chris Osheas service but will always treasure our friendship. Love Jackie

July 10, 2020

My Condolences To The Family;
I'm so sorry for your great loss. May the God of all comfort be with you all during this difficult time.

Carol Miller

July 10, 2020

I still have the words you wrote for my 50th birthday (Now 90) and perhaps that was the beginning of your idea for SNAP.
And, I will never forget the kindness of you and your family inviting me for a family dinner when my husband died.
How can we forget our voice teacher and those trips to the North Shore!
And singing for the Music Club.
So many events that make up a good life
.I feel fortunate to have had Marilyn in my life and will remember and treasure the relationship!
My deepest condolences to the family she loved so much!

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