DEBORAH ISRAEL

ISRAEL, DEBORAH
Deborah Leah Rebecca Schulman Israel died May 15, in New York, from a stroke. She was 71. Her life was marked by deep joy but also unusual adversity, which she faced with unrivaled grace and strength. Her circle of family and friends was legendary, and she was devoted to Jewish and political causes and Israel. She was also heavily involved in civic, cultural and religious communities around the greater Orlando area, where she lived for many years. She loved travel, books, theater, and opera. Born July 23, 1940, Debby lived in Chicago with parents William and Rachel Schulman; and siblings, Lillian Strauss, Masha Dubin and David Schulman, all now deceased. She attended high school and college in Florida, and a long marriage produced three children, Adrienne, Mark and Richard. Adrienne and Richard predeceased her. She also shared many years with her partner, the late Samuel Rosen. She divided her time between Florida, New York City and the Berkshires. She is survived by her son Mark, his wife Caryn; and their children whom she adored, Brandon and Lily; as well as two step-daughters, Leslie and Amy, their husbands and children; and loving nieces and nephews and their children. Funeral services and internment will take place on Friday, May 18 in the morning. For specific information, call Beth Shalom Memorial Chapel,407-599-1180. Donations may be sent to the Deborah S. Israel Fund, 13009 Community Campus Dr., Tampa, FL.