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Rachel Brandt Obituary
Rachel was an outstanding elementary teacher in Lower Moreland Township School District from 1974- 2002. She delighted in creating enriching and challenging experiences for her students, including her famous "Basic Knowledge Test," "Stone Soup" activity, and her tea parties designed to teach social etiquette.
Music was Rachel's other passion and joy. She studied viola with Max Aronoff of Philadelphia's New School of Music and went on to play viola in local orchestras with Jerry, most recently, Abington Symphony Orchestra and Abington Festival Strings, and along with her daughter Ellen, in a string quartet that provided music for over 200 local weddings.
Her retirement years were filled with local research of Huntingdon Valley, co-authoring with friend and neighbor Carol Terry Voices of the Valley, a publication that features personal anecdotes from older residents of historic Bethayres. She also taught strings at the Bryn Athyn Elementary School.
Rachel is survived by her husband Jerry, daughter Ellen (Frank), Daughter-in-law Linda (Ronald), grandchildren R. Stephen Brandt, Jr, Lauren E. Brandt, Jacqueline Boyle (Dave), Erin McKee, Kristin Royer (Aaron), Rachel DeGeorge (Glen), great-grandchildren Miranda Boyle, Hunter Boyle, Jackson Dye, Xavier Dye, Jane DeGeorge and Kate DeGeorge and nephews Peter W. Meshanic (Sarah) and Carl P. Meshanic (Jackie).
Burial will be private; a Celebration of Life will be scheduled later this summer. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to Abington Presbyterian Church's "Music at Abington" fund in her memory. Please indicate "For Music at Abington in memory of Rachel Brandt" on the online form.
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Shayna Pfeiffer
August 17, 2025
My deepest condolences. Mrs. Brandt was such an extraordinary lady. She was my homeroom teacher at Murray Avenue in the 6th grade. I adored her and I remember how shy and insecure I was back then. She believed in me and even let me and the other students put on a play, a cleaned-up version of Grease! I just have to emphasize how GOOD this woman was. She cared about us as people, not just students. She´s one of the reasons that I am an artist today. To have the ability to express yourself and be heard, especially when no one else is listening is without words. She will always be in my heart and I wish nothing but love and peace to her entire family. I think it is truly amazing that we all shared space on this earth with this beautiful and incredible woman. What a gift! Bless her soul.
Rheta Smith
August 12, 2025
The other day, I was suddenly thinking a lot about Rachel. Somehow we had been out of touch for many years. I don´t know how it happened, but I thought of trying again to get back in touch. So I googled and learned that it was too late, because she passed away a little over a month ago.
I have fond memories of 21 years ago, when Rachel and Jerry drove me to VT for my son´s destination wedding. I was still recovering from neck surgery as the result of an accident I had on black ice and I could not drive. I offered to pay their expenses, so they took me up on it and considered it their vacation, and we had a great time! Rachel also helped me start driving again. I had to be reexamined in order to get my license.
My family lived in Bryn Athyn. We were not members of Abington Presbyterian Church, but Rachel recommended my young son, Peter, to Stanley Powell; Pete was already an aspiring oboist. Stanley Powell invited Pete to join his young people´s choir on a weekend tour of Maryland and vicinity, to play oboe with the choir. This was the first musical commitment for Pete that had not been set up by his parents! This seemed to inspire him to pursue oboe seriously. He has been an oboist in the Philadelphia Orchestra since 1991!
I miss Rachel and regret not knowing her in the past few years. I send my condolences to Jerry, Ellen, and the extended family.
Rheta Smith
Nina Dewees
July 28, 2025
Sending so much love to the extended Brandt family. We sure love Rachel! She started our daughter Kevyn on her path to being a great violin player. And we got to buy the Brandt's Murray Ave. house when they moved in 2010/11! We love the home, and know that the Brandts made so many wonderful memories there, creating a happy and nurturing atmosphere. We are so grateful for Rachel's loving energy and passion!
-Nina and Niles Dewees family
Pam Seider Nebgen
July 15, 2025
Our whole lives we knew Rachel and her extraordinary musicianship, friendship and dedication to education. Lifelong friends of our parents, I found this photo in my parents wedding album.
Peace and Condolences to all.
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Chris Smith
July 13, 2025
One of the greatest Murray Ave. neighbour's, she was like a mother to us
( the Smith boys ) she understood our situation and was always there no matter how old we got. She thought us more than English , it was more about life and family. Digging the pool so we could use it that summer will be one of my memories shared with her and the family, she always had ice tea that was half lemonade and iced tea ready for when we came over all summer to swim. She will be missed by the Smith family ( the Murray Ave. kids )
R.I.P RACHEL BRANDT I KNOW YOU HAVE EARNED YOUR WINGS , YOU WERE TRULY A BLESSING TO MANY ! Love always Chris Smith
Susan Elfont
July 12, 2025
Where does one begin to honor a remarkable human being? Rachel was one of those rare people who took everyone into her heart and her generosity knew no bounds. I absolutely treasured our friendship and am so saddened to hear of her passing.
She was a joy to teach with and a joy to know. I felt such a kinship with Rachel, but realize that she extended that warmth and love to all who knew her. How lucky I feel to have been part of her life. May her memory be a blessing.
Linda Brandt
July 12, 2025
Rachel. What a wonderful human being!
I called her mom. She was Rons mom but mine too. She always had an ear to listen.
Always hands to help with a "What can I do?" An amazing gift of compassion and empathy, encouragement and all the virtues in just the right dose that a wonderful person possesses. This is Rachel Brandt. An outstanding wife ,mother, grandparent, teacher, musician, friend, neighbor. A true asset to everyone who knew her
Steven Gart
July 12, 2025
I remember her kindness and dedication to her students. Steve Gart
Gary Helsinger
July 11, 2025
When Ellen and I dated in high school, Mrs. Brandt was always so welcoming and loving to me. Just the sweetest person I ever met. She (and Mr. Brandt) opened their home to me and always made me feel like I was part of the family. Just after high school, Rachel gave me free flute lessons... so I made this cheese flute sculpture for her as a thank you.
One of my greatest joys to tie me to my home that I left for California almost 40 years ago, was seeing the Brandt family every time I came in and visited Ellen. Rachel was always visibly happy to see me over all of these decades. No visit home was complete without seeing Ellen´s mom. It was so bittersweet when her illness started to progress, but strangely it locked in those early years together so it really was an emotional time capsule for me.
I´m so glad for every time I got to see her, and catch her up with my life. I´m especially warmed by the fact that she got to know my daughter a little. She was the best mom, grandmom, great-grandmom, wife, teacher, and friend anyone could want. On top of that, her joy poured out of her music. What an honor it´s been for me to have had her in my life. She will live inside me forever (I wish I had a better photo of us together!)
Linda Fisher
July 11, 2025
I was fortunate to teach with Rachel at Pine Road School, and I´m not sure I can begin to convey what an incredible teacher and human being she was. Rachel was always smiling and positive, encouraging and supporting everyone around her. It was clear that she always cared about all of her students, and she had a gift for understanding what each of them needed to succeed. She loved the "teachable moments," and approached each day with enthusiasm and energy. She was not only a gift to the countless teachers and students who adored her but anyone who knew her. Rachel, you gained your wings, but you were already an Angel amongst us.
Jennifer Cole (nee Smith, but not a relative!)
July 11, 2025
I am so sorry I didn't get one more visit in with Rachel! I used to go on walks and stop by and she always greeted me with "Jen, Jen, so good to see you! I feel very touched that even with her mind not cooperating, she remembered me! I also wish I didn't get to play more music with her since we moved back to the area. LOTS of love to Jerry, Ellen, and the rest of the family. I love Rachel and look forward to celebrating her wonderful life one day.
Jacob Ritting
July 11, 2025
Mrs. Brandt was my all time favorite teacher. She had a gift for seeing the best in every student, and worked tirelessly to bring it out of them. She is always mentioned whenever a group of LM students talk about their school experiences. How lucky we all are to have those memories!
Ellen McKee
July 11, 2025
Ellen McKee
July 11, 2025
Ellen McKee
July 11, 2025
Ellen McKee
July 11, 2025
Erin (Kolakowski) Fahy
July 10, 2025
A truly amazing human. I was fortunate enough to take those "BK tests" and make the world a better place in 6th grade.
A true definition of a teacher who made learning meaningful and fun! Honestly one of the best years I can remember as a student and hope to always want to give my students. I am so sad this world is without her, but her legacy lives on through so many. You will always hold a special place in my heart Mrs. Brandt!
Randy Yardumian
July 10, 2025
Mrs Brandt was absolutely one of my most favorite teachers. I was a wild child that no one could tame, however, she and several other teachers knew how to roll with me and pique my interest in creative writing and sciences. She and I maintained a friendship out of school as we lived very close to each other- I would use her snowblower to clear her driveway of deep snow and then she would let me use it to go and make some money. All I had to do was keep her driveway clear and maintain the machine. I remember doing her driveway and Mr. Rayzor's as well (he lived 3 houses down from her.) I remember after clearing her driveway after one brutal winter storm, when she insisted that I come inside and warm up. Severap hot chocolates and a grilled cheeses later I finally convinced her I was warm enough to walk home.
She always had that smile on her face- an absolutely genuine smile that infected everyone within sight.
We lost touch over the years, especially after I moved to the Lehigh Valley. I always wondered what she was doing. She will be dearly missed. All my love to the Fanily.
Randy Yardumian, LM Student and a neighbor over on Anne Street.
Lauren Brandt
July 10, 2025
My grandmother was the best grandmother in the entire world. She supported me in everything way. She will truly be missed.
Ellen McKee
July 10, 2025
Ellen McKee
July 10, 2025
Jody Bell
July 10, 2025
My heart breaks for all of you. Rachel gave me so much over the years with her wisdom, humor, strength, and amazing passion for teaching. She will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Eileen Moran
July 10, 2025
Mrs. Brandt was my favorite teacher. She took such an interest in every student and went out of her way to connect with them. At the same time she made each and every one of us feel special. I felt blessed to have known her. I´m so sorry for your loss.
Susan Curry Synnestvedt Singer
July 10, 2025
Rachel was a very special coworker and friend to my mom, and a friend to our family. I remember when they collaborated on the "Self-Guided Walking Tour of Huntingdon Valley, PA". For many years Rachel and Mom took their Red Lion Road School fourth graders on this local historic tour. Decades later I was lucky enough to be on this same walking tour when Rachel offered it through HV Library.
Rachel, Bruce, and Linda created and maintained "The Secret Garden" at the back of HV Library in my mom´s memory when she passed away in 2005.
Each life she touched has been very blessed! Sending love and wishes to keep the good times in your heart!!
Joan Paltenstein
July 10, 2025
I have know Rachel for more than forty years. She was always such a positive person. She was a wonderful teacher and a very supportive friend. I will miss her beautiful smiling face.
Debbie Adcock
July 10, 2025
She was my 4th grade teacher! Loves her. Only good memories from her class. So sorry for the family´s loss.
Ginny Wasson
July 10, 2025
I was privileged to know her during my time at Valley Christian School. She was a lovely and kind woman especially when balls flew into her yard from the VCS students. She faithfully helped in the cafeteria serving however needed and whenever needed. She will be missed!
Betsy Payer
July 10, 2025
One of the many memories I will always treasure about Rachel was how she created special moments - such as the Wedding Breakfast for Charles & Diana, the party for her family's refurbished piano, and the celebration for the return of Haley's Comet. I also greatly admired how her definition of "family" kept expanding.
Sending love and prayers for her family, as they navigate the loss of its hub. Rachel will remain part of all of us who knew and loved her. May she rest in peach after a life well lived.
Diana Sullivan
July 10, 2025
Rachel Brandt was an "influencer" of her time. As a teacher, she influenced thousands of students to "be the best that they could be." As a colleague, she influenced countless young educators to strive to become better teachers by offering students fun ways to learn. As a friend, she influenced everyone she met. Rachel was kind and generous and supportive. She had a way of making you feel as if you were the best friend she could ever have. That´s what I loved the most about Rachel. You´d be hard pressed to find anyone who didn´t think that they were her best friend. She was one of those people who make you laugh louder, smile brighter, and live better.
The Meyers
July 10, 2025
We are heartbroken to hear about Rachel's passing. She was such a sweet and kind soul, who gave joy to all who met her. Our thoughts are with Jerry and the family and all who grieve.
Jackie
July 10, 2025
My grandmother was a gift to everyone who was blessed to know her. I have a lifetime of memories and humbled to have her in my life.
Peter Meshanic
July 10, 2025
Peter Meshanic
July 10, 2025
I"ve been looking back through photos of my Aunt Rachel and coming across so many wonderful memories and thoughts of how special she was to me. (But also remembering how she never wanted me to take her picture- "Hurry up and take the damn picture Pete" always makes me laugh). Watching her be the younger sister to my Mom (the Smith Girls) and seeing the two of them interact and truly enjoy each other's company on our visits was always an awesome and amazing experience for me to see. I am so grateful she was in my life and that Sarah, Jackson, Carter and Hunter all got to be around her and got to know her and her amazing smile, enthusiasm, laugther and positivity. I have so many special memories. We were all blessed to have an Aunt Rachel in our lives and will be so sad to see her gone, but so happy to have had her with us!
Peter Meshanic
July 10, 2025
Beth Miller
July 9, 2025
I've been playing cello in the Abington Symphony and summer strings for several years now and it has been an absolute pleasure getting to know Rachel, Jerry, and Ellen. I don't think I ever saw Rachel without a smile on her face - she will be missed! Sending love and condolences to all her family and friends who knew her best.
Gerri Ruckel
July 9, 2025
I had the good fortune to teach with Rachel at Murray Avenue School. I can still hear her laughter- it was infectious! She spread her kindness to students and fellow teachers. A favorite memory is when she hosted an annual Mexican Fiesta at the end of the year - Gary and Diana Sullivan helped with preparing and cooking the delicious, authentic Mexican food. Rachel made colorful aprons for Gary and Barry (my husband) as they cooked at the grill.
I have so many fond memories of Rachel inside and outside of school. Her string quartet played at our son´s wedding at the Morris Arboretum. It was beautiful!
May you rest in peace, Rachel. What a beautiful, kind soul.
Gerri Ruckel
Joan Casey
July 9, 2025
Rachel was a colleague of mine at Pine Road School. She was a pleasant and dedicated teacher who was always the voice of reason in any situation. She was kind and understanding to her students, and a model for her fellow teachers.
Keira E Spring
July 9, 2025
I have had the pleasure of crossing paths with Rachel several times. The latest was being able to share a stand with her at Abington Festival Strings. I was excited to play next to such an experienced musician. She was a delight and kept me on track when I lost my spot in the music. My condolences to all her family and friends.
Liz Weizer
July 9, 2025
Ellen, I never had the chance to meet your mom, but knowing you, I feel like I know something of the kind of person she must have been-kind and strong with an unstoppable spirit. I´m so sorry for your loss, and I´m holding you in my heart. I love you!
Stephanie Patterson
July 9, 2025
Linda Baldwin
July 9, 2025
Playing string quartets with Rachel Brandt was always one of my great joys. She was not only a very fine musician, but was always cheerful, thoughtful and fun to be with. Rachel was an avid knitter. I love the fingerless mittens she made for me - so that I could practice on cold days! I will miss her.
Stephanie Patterson
July 8, 2025
Rachel was a warm and welcoming person who cherished those around her. She was also an outstanding musician and orchestra colleague. There are no words other than to say how much she will be missed. My love to her entire family and all those whose lives she touched.
Ellen McKee
July 8, 2025
Mary Felley
July 8, 2025
Rachel was a wonderful human being and a first-class musician. I treasure the times we played together. She will be missed by all, but leaves behind a landscape of beautiful memories.
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