It’s with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother and grandmother, Bess Labiner (nee Zechnowitz), on December 17, 2021.

Bess is survived by her husband of more than 65 years, Elliot Labiner, son David (Jan), daughter Susan Watt (Phil), and four devoted granddaughters, Kate, Betsy, Elissa, and Michelle.

Bess was kind, smart, quick, witty, compassionate, patient and respectful. A woman of true grace.

Bess was born in and raised in Brooklyn, where she met some of her life-long friends. She attended Adelphi University and continued creating bonds of friendship that lasted her lifetime. Bess’s early career was as a social worker in New York City. After having children, she earned a Masters Degree in education, which later led to teaching Art History through Brandeis National Women’s Committee. She later worked in the family tea business, Consolidated Tea Company alongside Elliot until they retired in 2015.

Bess loved adventure and cultural exchange, and traveled a great many places in her life. She was passionate about politics and volunteered on many campaigns, working to make the world a better place for generations to come. She was a great patron of the arts and an avid reader who enjoyed exploring the world and empathetically engaging with others’ lives and ideas through art and literature, and was a devoted member of a book club, in which enriching conversations and friendships flourished.

Bess was dedicated to making the lives of homeless animals better, and frequently encouraged others to rescue a furry friend, as she did so many times. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the North Shore Animal League or a charity of your choice.

Due to current COVID concerns, there will be no Shiva or service at this time.

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