Barbara Wald

Barbara Wald, (nee Frankel) March 23, 2024, of Media PA; survived by daughters Leah Wald, Marcie Wald, son Adam Wald, brother Steven Frankel, and grandsons Daniel Wald Zollman and Joshua Wald Zollman.

Barbara was born in 1935 in Council Bluffs, Iowa as the daughter of Leon Frankel and Mildred Meyerson Frankel. She treasured memories of extended family gatherings during her childhood. Barbara earned an A.B. from the University of Chicago in 1957 where she met her long-time husband, Martin Wald (died Nov. 2023). 

Barbara taught in public and private elementary schools in the late 1950s and early 1960s, and in various settings including Drexel University in the 1970s and 80s. She started and ran her own business, Software Supporters, a computer software consulting business in the 1980s. An avid writer, she authored a book, “Medical Maze: How to Select, Handle and Fire Doctors” drawing on her family’s extensive experiences with the healthcare system to advise others. Barbara also wrote numerous articles, short stories, poems and essays throughout her life. 

Barbara was an active community member.  She led Junior and Adult Great Books discussion groups, served on the Main Line Reform Temple Religious School Committee and founded the synagogue’s Parent-Teacher Association. She was an active patroller for the Lower Merion Community Watch, served on the Board of Directors of the Merion Civic Association and Board of Directors of Martins Run Life Care Community, and of the Smart Family Foundation. She edited newsletters for the apartment building they lived in on Hagys Ford Rd. and for what was then called Martin’s Run.

Barbara nurtured valued friendships and doted on her grandsons. She modeled resilience, courage, and dedication to helping others and contributing to the world.  

Relatives and friends are invited to funeral services, Wednesday, March 27, 2024, 1:45PM, at Joseph Levine & Sons, 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall, PA.   Interment to follow at Har Jehuda Cemetery.  Shiva will be observed at the residence of Leah Wald.  In lieu of flowers, contributions in Barbara’s memory may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.