Betty J Levin
“The First Lady of Real Estate”
Betty J. Levin—a larger-than-life personality, devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, legendary real estate professional, traveler, dancer, wine lover, and lifelong learner—passed away on October 12, 2026, entirely on her own terms and in a way that was quintessentially Betty.
Her birth date has intentionally been omitted in deference to Betty’s lifelong belief that she was forever young. Quite frankly, none of us were about to argue with her.
Born in Newton, Massachusetts, to Isadore J. and Nettie S. Silverman, Betty went on to live a life that was full, vibrant, colorful, and never boring. A graduate of Concord Academy and Case Western Reserve University, she was a lifelong learner and an avid current-events junkie. She always wanted to know what was happening in the world—and was never shy about sharing her thoughts on it.
For more than 50 years, Betty was a respected real estate trailblazer in the Medford and Somerville area, affectionately known as “The First Lady of Real Estate.” She loved her career, cherished her clients, and above all, loved making a deal. She often declared she would “die with her boots on.” True to her word, she spent her final day negotiating a real estate deal—wearing her hospital socks. There could hardly have been a more fitting farewell.
Betty believed appearances mattered. She never left home without lipstick and was always perfectly accessorized and tastefully dressed; even a quick trip to the store could turn into a fashion event. She lived life to the maximum, loving music, travel, a good glass of wine, and laughter. She was routinely the first one on the dance floor and the very last one off it, surrounded by a cherished inner circle of friends who became family.
Betty was the loving mother of Charlene Berkman Brody (married to Richard), Laura Baliestiero, and P.J. Levin. She was affectionately known as “Mama Betty” to her grandchildren, Jason Baliestiero, Brad Brody, Marshall Brody, and Micaela Baliestiero, and adored by her 3 great-grandchildren, She was predeceased by her husband, Joe Silva; her son-in-law, Michael Baliestiero; and her brothers, William and Norman Silverman.
Betty was not perfect. She made mistakes, made questionable decisions, occasionally said things she probably shouldn’t have, and freely offered unsolicited advice. But she lived honestly, passionately, and without a single regret. When asked if she enjoyed her life, Betty simply said, “I loved it.” When asked if she wished she had done anything differently, her answer was an emphatic, “No.”
And that was Betty’s greatest lesson: Live life your way. Work hard. Love fiercely. Learn from your mistakes. Laugh often. Dance. Travel. Make memories. And never forget to enjoy the ride.
She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, clients, colleagues, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her, like all legends Betty will live forever in the hearts she touched.
Services at the Goldman Funeral Chapel 174 Ferry Street (off Route 60), Malden on Thursday, October 15 at 10:30 AM. Private family interment to follow.
Condolence calls may be made at the Ho Win Palace 269 Middlesex Avenue, Medford on Thursday 10/15 from 4-7 PM.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to THE Jimmy Fund at Dana Farber Cancer Institute in her memory. Also have a “Drinky Winky” in Betty’s honor. Tell a funny story. Play some music. Dance. Have another glass of wine, raise a glass, and remember a woman who truly knew how to live. For online condolences go to: http://www.goldmanfc.com.