Margaret Cecil Epstein
Did you know Margaret? Please share your stories and photos, and help spread the word about this page!
Peggy Cecil Epstein (n?e Margaret C Burtaine) died on February 20, 2022 peacefully and on her terms. A vibrant women of high style, she was the family matriarch sharing stories of growing up in Brooklyn, NY., Hartford, Conn.; and Springfield/Longmeadow, Ma. Her love of music, art and performing came from her father (Henry E. Burtaine, who was concert master of Radio City Music Hall in the 1920's). Peggy attended Juilliard, and Hart School of Music. As an Opera singing, she loved Mozart, especially Cosi Fan Tutte (translated as "All Women Do It!")
Her wit and political views were influenced by her mother (Antoinette Glassberg Burtaine, a Suffragist. Discussing (aka, arguing) political points of view was a favorite pastime. As was attacking and completing New York Times Crosswords, winning at Scrabble and playing complex versions of Solitaire. She never lost her mental acumen, charm and wit. Peggy was adored by her older bothers Leon, and Edward; and dearly loved by her husband of 55 years Robert J.Epstein, all predeceased. Her children Debra, Paul and Charlie were the beneficiaries of her immense love, drive and talents. She was Grandma Gigi to her 4 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren and Tante (i.e Aunty) Peggy to nieces and nephews; many of whom were with her in her last days. True to form, Peggy directed her last days to be of her choosing. Full of music, remembrances and laughter. She spoke only of her love of family in her last hours, as she dolled out instructions to all- "Shake it up" she commanded, "Change the status quo!" She faced life and death on her terms, with courage, dignity and grace. She lived 94 years of a life of wonderment, joy, laughter and play and discovery for discovery's sake. We promise to carry her touch of love, positive change, and celebrate her life with a party for the ages. The Ascher-Zimmerman Funeral Home is helping the family.