Lillian Rachael Goldstein, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away on May 30, 2025 at the age of 86. Born in Chelsea, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of Philip and Bessie Kaplan and was the fourth of five children. She graduated from Chelsea High School, class of 1956, as the class salutatorian. Lillian dedicated her life to her family and was always there with a story, a smile and a loving embrace. Expressing gratitude was very important for Lillian; she was always quick with a sincere “thank you” in appreciation for anything done on her behalf.
Lillian was intelligent, hardworking and excellent with numbers. Her first bookkeeping job after high school was at the Prattville Pharmacy and she retired after many years working for Insta-Care Pharmacy in their financial department. When her children were older, Lillian loved working at the Hamilton Elementary School as a teacher’s aide, helping children learn to read and write. She was a loyal sports fan and enjoyed rooting for the Red Sox and Patriots in her later years.
Lillian’s unwavering support and encouragement and focus on educational pursuits resulted in her two children attending four year colleges. She was so proud of Lisa and Todd (Lisa, Wellesley ‘83 and Todd, Brandeis ‘86 and Babson MBA ‘93). Her grandchildren brought her great pride and joy and she loved visiting Salt Lake City. Lillian enjoyed speaking with them on the phone and hearing updates about their lives and adventures.
She was predeceased by her siblings and their spouses: Sylvia & Ben Moldoff, Herman & Marilyn Kaplan and Jean & David Elfman. She is survived by her loving children and their spouses: Lisa & David Kieda and Todd & Claudia Goldstein; her grandchildren: Daniel (Holly), Zachary & Benjamin Kieda and Matthew Lawson; her brother and sister-in-law Sid & Judy Kaplan.
Her funeral took place on June 4th at the Farband Cemetery in Danvers, Massachusetts. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the Winchester Nursing Home for their care and support.