Harriet Bodker Epstein, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and beloved member of the Prairie Village, Kansas, community, passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on March 25.
Born on Jan. 19, 1932, to David and Anna Bodker in Kansas City, Harriet was a woman of intelligence, grace and boundless compassion. From an early age she had many talents, including playing the piano, cooking and sewing, as well as being an avid reader. She excelled in her studies, graduating high school at just 16 before attending the University of Missouri, where she was treasurer of her sorority, Alpha Epsilon Phi.
Education and a curiosity for knowledge were incredibly important to Harriet, and upon graduation from Mizzou, she became a dedicated teacher at Border Star School. She exposed her students to endless subjects; she taught the entire 6th grade class how to dance the Charleston and used her sewing skills to make everyone costumes for their school performances.
On June 19, 1955, she married the love of her life, Richard Epstein, a union that became the foundation of a family filled with warmth, laughter and unwavering support. They shared 52 years of love and admiration until his passing in 2007. Together they raised three children, Hal, Susan and David, who, along with her four cherished grandchildren, were the center of her world.
Harriet had an impeccable sense of style and a lifelong love of the arts, including fashion, music, literature and interior design. She had a discerning eye, staying ahead of the trends and possessing a deep knowledge of antiques. Beyond her excellent taste and sophistication, she cared deeply about her loved ones and neighbors, always putting others before herself. She remained actively involved in causes she championed, like protecting the environment by serving on the Prairie Village Tree Board.
Through her kindness, sense of humor, devotion to her family and loyalty to her many friends, she was a cornerstone of her community in Prairie Village. Her love was endless and her memory eternal.
Harriet was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Epstein, and her older brother, Stanley Bodker. She is survived by her oldest son and daughter-in-law, Hal and Carol Epstein; their children, Annie and Jeremy; her daughter and son-in-law, Susan and Paul Leonard; their children, Allie and Nicky; Allie’s husband, Sam Lipnick; and her youngest son and son-in-law, David Epstein and Wade Tajerian.
The family would like to give a heartfelt thanks to her doctor of many years, Dr. John Dunlap, and her loving caregivers. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Harriet’s memory to the American Heart Association, Wayside Waifs Animal Shelter or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be left for the family at louismemorialchapel.com.