Carla Silverman, 89

CHELMSFORD, MASS. – Carla L. Silverman, of Chelmsford, formerly of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, passed away on Dec. 22, 2022, at The Atrium of Drum Hill. She was born on June 11, 1933, in New York, New York to the late Percy and Gertrude (Sonion) Newman. She was the beloved wife of the late Ira Silverman for 66 wonderful years.

She was a devoted mother to all her children. Surviving her are her daughter, Susan J. Miller and her husband, Chris, of Chelmsford; three well-loved grandchildren: Robert Royall and his wife, Leah, Rebecca Miller and Deborah Miller. She is also survived by her sister, Shadelle Kenler; brothers Charles Newman and his wife, Andrea, Louis Newman and his companion, Alice, Jay Newman and his wife, Elaine. As the oldest daughter, Carla had a special relationship with all her siblings and was always thrilled to see them.

Carla was a strong woman and a friend to all. Family came first to her – she and Ira never refused an invitation to visit with family, share in simchas (happy occasions) or console the bereaved. They made the trek many times from Pennsylvania to MA/RI to help stay involved in their children’s and grandchildren’s lives. Community was just as important to her – she was active in Beth El Temple and its sisterhood. Her neighbors became her extended family.

Carla assisted with setting up shiva meals for the bereaved. She helped tutor individuals and develop their literacy skills. She welcomed immigrants and helped them integrate into the community. Together, Carla and Ira volunteered with Kosher Meals on Wheels for many years, delivering meals and food to people in the community, no matter how poor the weather conditions.

Carla was preceded in death by her daughter, Lisa, her son, Steven, her daughter Sherry Royall and son-in-law David Royall, her brother-in-law, Richard Kenler and her sister-in-law, Barbara Newman.

Contributions may be made to the Silver Academy, 3301 North Front St., Harrisburg, PA 17110 or Ronald McDonald House Charities of New England, 45 Gay St., Providence, RI 02905.