Melvyn L. Freid

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Melvyn was happiest when sharing good times with family and friends.

Melvyn Louis Freid, a cherished member of the Philadelphia community, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026 at the age of 88. Born on July 22, 1937 in Mahanoy City Township, PA, an only child, he was predeceased by his beloved parents, Benjamin Freid and Bertha “Moscovitz” Freid, as well as his devoted wife, Diane Wang.

After graduating from Mahanoy City High School, he attended Penn State University 1955-56 followed by achieving an Associate’s Degree from the renowned Pierce School of Business in 1956-58. Before beginning his career, Melvyn served his country honorably in the U.S. Army as a Corpsman 4 from 1959 to 1961, stationed at Fort Meade, Maryland.

In 1970, Melvyn graduated from Drexel University with a B.S. degree in Accounting. He worked tirelessly during the day while attending night classes for eight years. His excellent record led to an accreditation as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), and he went on to serve with distinction for 35 years at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). During his tenure, Melvyn earned numerous awards recognizing both his professional expertise and his benevolence. At this time Melvyn also engaged in successful entrepreneurial and real estate initiatives.

Melvyn's life was enriched by his passions and interests. A devoted fan of Philadelphia sports teams, he enthusiastically supported the Phillies, Eagles, and 76ers. He also enjoyed attending local games such as St. Joseph's University basketball games with his wife, Diane. Beyond sports, Melvyn had a deep appreciation for the arts. He was a longtime member of the Walnut Street Theatre and the Philadelphia Philharmonic. He frequently attended Broadway plays and musicals in New York City, delighting in knowing all the songs. Melvyn also supported numerous cultural institutions such as the Jewish Museum, the Philadelphia Horticultural Society, the Philadelphia Zoo, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation of Philadelphia and many more.

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He exemplified the principle of "Love Thy Neighbor" through countless acts of generosity.

Melvyn belonged to Temple Beth Zion/Beth Israel in Philadelphia. He exemplified the principle of "Love Thy Neighbor" through countless acts of generosity. Melvyn was responsible for spearheading the preservation and maintenance of the neglected Sons of Jacob Cemetery in Hometown, PA. With great perseverance, he rallied the remaining Jewish community and together transformed the cemetery into a desirable resting place for future families in the area. This is a continuing work effort.

Everybody’s “Uncle Mel,” he was known for creating joyful and meaningful experiences for others. Whether it be holidays, birthdays, weddings, bar mitzvahs or just simple dinners, Melvyn was happiest when sharing good times with family and friends. He was also known for gifting tickets to sports events, concerts and even assisting individuals with their educational goals. Melvyn was also a dedicated volunteer during tax season. For years, he offered his accounting expertise to help individuals, organizations, synagogues and local churches. Mel was there for everyone.

Melvyn had an adventurous spirit as well. A seasoned traveler, he explored many continents, including Europe, South America, and such Asian countries as Israel, India, South Korea, China, Taiwan and the Philippines, to name a few. He loved sharing his always entertaining and unforgettable stories with everyone.

Melvyn is survived by first cousins and their families on both the Freid and Moscovitz sides. Among them are Michele Greenberg, Danny Moscovitz, Karen Freid-Cohen, Jay Freid, Carole Freid (wife of recently deceased cousin, Dr. Jeffrey Freid), Eileen Edelstein, Barbara Holton, and the Wang in-laws. Special thanks to friends Jay Baker, Jackie Kidd, Edward O’Hara and many others who will cherish his memory.

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A devoted fan of Philadelphia sports teams, he enthusiastically supported the Phillies, Eagles, and 76ers.

For more than six decades, Melvyn called Philadelphia his home and embodied its spirit of "Brotherly Love." His warmth, generosity, and humor left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. May Melvyn’s memory be a blessing to all who were fortunate enough to share in his remarkable life.

In lieu of gifts, please donate to:

Sons of Jacob/Beth Israel Cemetery Fund,

c/o Jewish Community Foundation of Central Pennsylvania

2000 Linglestown Road, Suite 301

Harrisburg, PA 17110

Please make checks payable to: Jewish Community Foundation of Central Pennsylvania

Make a Note on the Check: For FBO Congregation Beth Israel Cemetery Fund