Florence ‘Flo’ Korostoff Gussman, a beloved teacher, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away peacefully on October 23, 2024. Born in Philadelphia on May 13, 1930, Flo’s life was a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of family, education, and unwavering joy.
Flo’s grew up in a lively home above the family’s grocery store. Her parents Menasha and Sonya Korostoff were dedicated to tikkun olam. Her sister was Matya Shuval, the noted Israeli artist. Her brother Irv was a dedicated respected teacher.
She excelled in academics, sports, and leadership, graduating from Philadelphia High School for Girls and attending the University of Pennsylvania with a passion for learning that would shape her entire life.
After marrying Alfred “Obby” Gussman, Flo dedicated herself to raising their three children, David, Debra, and Ruth. Even as a busy mother, she never lost her thirst for knowledge and earned multiple advanced degrees in education and counseling.
Flo’s teaching career was nothing short of legendary. She inspired countless students as an elementary school teacher, sharing her love of science and her passion for creating a joyful and inclusive learning environment. Her innovative teaching methods, including her famous bridge units and school plays, left a lasting impact on her students and colleagues.
Flo was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a pillar of the Jewish community in Williamsburg, VA, and taught two generations how to make a Jewish home (her challah birds remain a staple on many Shabbat tables). She was an extraordinary artist who created beautiful Judaica and cherished toys for her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Flo was a dedicated genealogist, collecting family stories and recording them for future generations (her writings can be found at www.bubbesplace.com).
Flo is survived by her children, David, Debra, and Ruth; her grandchildren, Aaron, Joel, Daniel, and Sam; and her nine great-grandchildren.
A memorial service celebrating Flo’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Hadassah, the American Jewish World Service, or Temple Beth El of Williamsburg, VA.
