BDE: Tova Miriam (Gitty) Astolin, 59, OBM

With great sadness we report the passing of Tova Miriam (Gitty) Astolin OBM, a wife, mother, and sister from Crown Heights. She passed away on Shabbos, the 21st of Teves 5786.

She was 59 years old.

Tova Miriam (nee Srour) was the wife of David Astolin a member of Crown Heights Hatzalah who spent years as a bus driver and guard at Lubavitcher Yeshiva Crown Street.

Gitty had a deep love for children and dedicated her life to teaching as a second-grade teacher. She believed every child deserved patience, encouragement, and compassion, and she brought those values into her classroom every day. Her students were not just learners to her, but individuals she genuinely cared about, and many will remember her as the teacher who made them feel seen and capable.

As a mother and stepmother, Gitty was amazing in every sense of the word. She gave selflessly, listened without judgment, and loved unconditionally. Her guidance, strength, and gentle honesty shaped the lives of her family, who were always her greatest pride.

Gitty will be remembered for her generous heart, her integrity, and her ability to make others feel comfortable and valued. She had a quiet strength and a steady presence that brought calm and reassurance to those around her.

She is survived by her Daughter Chaya Ruda Silber nee Srour, sister Ruchy Elbogen, Husband David Astolin, and many stepchildren who will carry her love and lessons with them always.

The levaya will take place tomorrow, Sunday, at 10:00am, at the New Montefiore Cemetery.

Shiva information to be announced.

Boruch Dayan Hoemes