Joanne Epstein

Joanne David Epstein passed away suddenly on Sunday, August 5, in Houston, Texas. Joanne was an incredible wife, mom, and grandma. To Joanne, family was always first, while she was also a friend to many. She maintained a close and loving relationship with extended family scattered around the U.S. and around the world. She will be remembered for her innate ability to maintain relationships for a lifetime. She went to every family event she could, but her favorite time was spent with her husband Marc, her daughters, and grandchildren. Born on May 20, 1948, in Los Angeles, California to Margaret and Eric David, she attended local schools. She spent many summers at Camp Ramah in Ojai and attended Temple Beth Am in Los Angeles. Joanne graduated from San Francisco State University, earning her degree in Political Science. She also earned her masters degree at the University of Texas, Arlington in Urban Affairs. While at San Francisco State, Joanne met Marc, her husband of 49 years. They built an incredible life together living in many places, including Los Angeles, Boston, New York City, France, Canada, and Palo Alto before settling in Houston in 1998. Joanne was an avid traveler (with Marc), exploring Africa, Asia, Antarctica, Europe, as well as many trips to Israel. Joanne loved sports; tennis, biking, and running were amongst her favorites. Joanne was a member of the Beth Yeshuran Synagogue as well as Temple Beth Shalom in Palm Springs, California. She volunteered often for the Sisterhood of the Beth Yeshurun Synagogue. Deeply mourned by her husband Marc, daughters Judy (Scott) Zivley and Debbie (Simcha) Firestone, Joanne was also devoted to her five loving grandchildren; Emily Firestone, Noah Firestone, Maya Firestone, Amanda Zivley and Katie Zivley. She also enjoyed a special relationship with her great-nephew Gabe, who considered her a special person in his life. She is also survived by her brother George as well as 6 nieces and nephews Nathan, Rachel, Danielle, Efrem, Shira, and Arielle. Joanne will be remembered as joyful but serious; fun-loving but sincere; honest, caring, and faithful to friends and family. She was a constant attendee of the Museum Minyan at Beth Yeshurun, attending each week with her Houston granddaughters from the time they were little. Joanne had an amazing sense of direction, which was a great help when she and Marc explored a multitude of cities. She could be depended on for her honesty and integrity, her word could be trusted in both business and personal relations. She was down to earth in daily life and always full of joy. Her dedication to family, friends, and meaningful causes are what all who know her will remember about her. Joanne is already sadly missed and will continue to be missed forever. Graveside service will be at 10am, Tuesday, August 7, 2018 at Beth Yeshurun Post Oak Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Museum Minyan of Congregation Beth Yeshurun, Planned Parenthood, or any charity of your choice.

Joanne Epstein

May 20, 1948 - August 5, 2018