Florence was born in Brooklyn NY, the eldest of three siblings, Esta Salzhauer of New Jersey, and Irving. Florence was educated at Brooklyn College and elected Phi Beta Kappa. She earned her Ph.D. in education at the University of Rochester. She was principal of an elementary school and Assistant Superintendent in Pittsford NY. During these years she and her husband, Ira, raised their son, Dr. David Seldin, who predeceased them, and their daughter, Judi Seldin, of Needham MA. From 1988 to 1992, Florence served as superintendent of schools in Harvard MA. Florence and Ira settled in Chatham in 1994.
Florence was an activist through and through. Her favorite bumper sticker reads “Democracy is not a spectator sport” and she lived this every day. In the 1970’s, when she was a school administrator in NY, she served on a statewide commission investigating discrimination against women. On the Cape, she championed affordable housing. Always remembering her mother’s strong encouragement to vote, she joined the League of Women Voters of Cape Cod and served as president from 1997 to 2000. Dr. Seldin served on the Chatham select board from 2009 to 2015 and was chair for three years. She was vice chair of the Town’s finance committee. Florence believed that every vote counts. She protested and marched, moderated candidate debates, and was the consummate public servant.
Florence was the mainstay of her family, a constant source of wisdom and meaningful conversation. She adored her five grandchildren, Stephanie, Maggie, Diana, Benjamin and Emma and her daughter-in-law Libby Hohmann. Holiday gatherings were especially lively when Esta, Shari, Evan, Bethany, Farny, and Abbe attended. Chatham turkey trots and Passover role playing were family favorites. She had an unwavering curiosity and a unique ability to connect with everyone she met.
Florence’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, April 23 at the Chatham Community Center from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the League of Women Voters of Cape Cod or the David C. Seldin Amyloid Research Training Fund. For online condolences, please visit www.nickersonfunerals.com.
Picture Credit:Edward Boches
