Harriet Levy Tsocheff

June 29, 1939 - October 31, 2020

Harriet Levy Tsocheff, 81, passed peacefully at her home on October 31, 2020 surrounded by her loving and devoted husband, Terry, and two daughters, Pamela Houston and Wendy Tucker. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Harriet attended Boston University. She started her career in education after moving to Florida almost 60 years ago. While working as a teacher in South Florida, she met the love of her life, Terry. Harriet and Terry were fortunate to have 46 wonderful years together, the last 17 years as full time Lake County residents. A born leader and innovator, Harriet used her dedication to education to help children reach their full potential. While the principal of an elementary school in an underserved section of Broward County, Harriet transformed a “D” rated school into an “A” by earning the trust and then enfolding parents, local community, and law enforcement into the “school community.” Harriet retired from the Broward County school system in 2003 after 34 years. Harriet will be remembered as a voracious reader, master gardener, wonderful cook, lover of crossword puzzles and for her famous quote for solving conflicts: “Is it a hill worth dying on?” “If no, be the bigger person and let it go.” “If yes, fight like hell.” In addition to her husband and daughters, Harriet is survived by her five beloved grandchildren, Samuel, Emily, Nicholas, Michael, and Matthew. She also is survived by her son-in-law, Thomas Houston. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease organization of your choice.