Ida-Joyce Levine

BOSTON, Mass. – Ida-Joyce Levine passed away on Feb. 19, 2024, in Boston, Mass. where she had been living for the past few years after spending most of her life at her home in Waterville, Maine. She was 81 years old.

Ida-Joyce’s life revolved around family. She was a very beloved daughter, sister, niece, aunt, great-aunt, great-great aunt and devoted friend. She never ever forgot a birthday or anniversary of those she loved, and she rejoiced in the joys of her family. She had a sharp mind and an excellent memory. She was a valued source of family history, including dates and events, and was appreciated for her caring attention to the details of the lives of her wide circle of family and friends. Ida-Joyce always made enormous efforts to attend all family milestone events, and they brought her great joy. She excelled at staying in touch with all those she loved and was a wonderful correspondent via phone and written notes.Ida-Joyce graduated from Coburn Classical Institute in Waterville and attended Boston University.

She worked for many years as a librarian, first at the Social Law Library in Boston and then at the Maine State Library in Augusta for decades. She loved her work and her colleagues there who became lifelong friends. She was an active member of Beth Israel Synagogue in Waterville and especially enjoyed events, educational opportunities, and services led by Rabbi Rachel Isaacs, who became a dear friend as well. Ida-Joyce was also active in and supported a Holocaust remembrance group in Maine and attended many Holocaust lectures over the years.

Ida-Joyce loved her home state of Maine and also loved to travel. She traveled to many countries throughout her life and recounted those trips with great detail and enthusiasm. She loved music, had a wonderful singing voice, and was a very talented piano player who played beautifully by ear.

Ida-Joyce is survived by her siblings Judith L. Brody (the late Judge Morton A. Brody), Robert A. Levine (Tobie) and Frederick E. Levine. She was predeceased by her brother; Julius B. Levine, and by her parents, Lewis L. and Celia G. Levine. She is also survived by 11 nieces and nephews; 32 great nieces and nephews; and one great-great nephew.

The funeral for Ida-Joyce Levine was held at the Jewish Funeral Home at 471 Deering Ave., Portland, Maine on Tuesday, Feb. 20. Burial followed at Mt. Sinai Cemetery, Portland.

In lieu of flowers,

contributions may be made in Ida-Joyce’s memory to:

Beth Israel Congregation

P.O. Box 1882

Waterville, ME 04901