Obituary: Mollie Goodman Aczel

Mrs. Mollie Goodman Aczel, née Mollie Doris Goodman, passed away after a long illness on March 21, 2026, in Briarcliff, N.Y., at the age of 86. Born on Aug. 7, 1939, in Houston, Texas, she was the daughter of Aaron and Bessie Goodman and the sister of Michael Goodman and Gerald Goodman.

Mollie’s life was defined by her unwavering dedication to education and her profound commitment to fostering Jewish learning. She earned a bachelor of science in education (Summa Cum Laude) from the University of Houston and went on to complete a master’s in education in special education there as well. Her passion for advancing educational excellence led her to further studies as a Graduate Fellow in the Education of the Gifted at Teachers College, Columbia University. Additionally, she obtained a certification in administration and supervision from Kean College in Union, N.J.

Throughout her distinguished career, Mollie made an indelible impact on Jewish education. She served as the founding Head of School at the Adele and Alfred Davis Academy from 1991 to 1999, where her leadership helped establish a thriving institution dedicated to academic rigor and Jewish values. Prior to this, she was the principal at the Irvin M. Shlenker School in Houston from 1983 to 1988.

Mollie also contributed her expertise as an educational consultant for the Partnership for Excellence in Jewish Education from 1998 to 2014. Her work extended beyond school settings; she served as program coordinator for the Organization for Rehabilitation through Training (ORT) from 2004 to 2005 and as supervisor of student teachers and adjunct faculty at Kean College from 1989 to 1991.

Her lifelong commitment to expanding educational opportunities stemmed from a deep belief in the importance of a strong secular Jewish education. Mollie’s efforts not only helped found one school but also led several others toward growth and success. Her legacy is reflected in countless students and teachers whose lives were enriched by her vision and commitment.

Above all, Mollie was a devoted mother and grandmother. By taking her family on adventures across the globe, she instilled in them a lifelong passion for learning and discovery, leaving behind a legacy of memories they will always hold dear.

Mollie was predeceased by her beloved husband, Dr. Thomas Aczel; her brother, Michael Goodman; and her parents, Aaron and Bessie Goodman. She is survived by her loving family; son, Joseph Aczel, and wife, Debra Lubar, along with their children, Noah, Lilah, and Arden; son, Stephen Aczel, and wife, Jackie Eris Aczel, with their son, Tomas; daughter, Elisabeth Aczel Wallock, and husband, Stuart Wallock, with their sons, William, Andrew, and Aidan; daughter, Bettina Prober, and husband, Michael Prober, with their sons, Ethan, Jonathan, and Benjamin; and brother, Gerald Goodman, and wife, Mary Jo. She is also survived by her devoted caretaker of eight years, Janet Mattheson, who brought joy, friendship, and comfort during the final chapter of Mollie’s life.

Mollie’s memory will live on through those who knew her as an inspiring educator, devoted family member, and advocate for lifelong learning. May her memory be a blessing and bring comfort to all who knew her.

For those who wish, donations may be made in her name to the Alzheimer’s Association at Help fight Alzheimer’s or to Jewish Family Services in Houston at https://www.alexanderjfs.org/donate.