Annette Charlotte Spivak

VIRGINIA BEACH – Annette “Honey” Spivak passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025.

Born January 23, 1933, in Chelsea, Massachusetts, Honey lived to bring joy, love, comfort, compassion, and kindness to the people in her world, the Jewish value of “tikkun olam.” Honey’s life’s journey was focused on family, friends, and faith. This was reflected in her marriage of 67 years to Dr. Maurice Spivak and her devotion to her children and grandchildren.

An outstanding student, Honey attended both the University of Maine and Brandeis University before her marriage. She was an avid reader who also enjoyed painting, theater, music, and the culinary arts. She delighted her students, children, and grandchildren with her storytelling, singing and playful nature.

Honey’s proud profession was homemaker. But, over the years, she also worked in a variety of positions that allowed her to keep close to home. These ranged from Montessori teacher, independent baker, professional gourmet ice cream maker, Avon lady, and Tupperware saleswoman.

Honey was very connected to Jewish faith and values. For many years, she was a member of Temple Israel in Norfolk and enjoyed Jewish social groups such as Brith Sholom and JCC Seniors. She was a lifelong student of Jewish history and literature, comparative religions, and archeology.

In 1979, with the signing of the Camp David Accords, events conspired to give Honey her lifelong dream of living in the Jewish homeland. In the peace agreement, the State of Israel agreed to return the Sinai Peninsula to Egypt. Dr. Spivak was selected senior engineer for the massive infrastructure transition, and in 1980, the couple moved to Israel. During this time, Honey studied archeology at Tel Aviv University.

Honey is preceded in death by her beloved husband Maurice “Murray” Spivak; her parents, Mack and Esther Mann; and her brother, Richard Mann. She is survived by her loving children, Michelle Spivak Melinger (Joseph Melinger), Myra Spivak and Jonah Spivak (Karen Takane); her cherished grandchildren, David Lessans (Mallory Lessans), Aaron P. Kelley, Ari Melinger-Cohen, Emily LaPane (Christina LaPane), Asher Spivak, Miranda Spivak, and Eden Melinger; and her great-grandson, Merlin Ostrom. She leaves behind many dear extended family members and beloved friends who will forever hold her memory in their hearts.

A funeral service was held at Altmeyer Funeral Home Southside Chapel with Rabbi Dr. Michael Panitz officiating. Memorial contributions in Honey’s memory should be directed to Temple Israel, Norfolk or by going to www.tmcfunding.com.

May her memory be a blessing and her legacy of loving kindness continue to inspire all who knew her.