Miriam (Giber) Toubman, 86, of Durham, diminutive but huge-hearted matriarch, died at Hartford Hospital surrounded by her loving mishpakha (extended family). An avid swimmer and beach enthusiast, with a kitchen in constant motion, she is remembered for her constant efforts to weave the many threads of her family together. She was generous, compassionate, and caring, always celebrating life and bringing comfort to those in need. Born in Hartford, Miriam was the daughter of the late Isidore and Rose (Lappen) Giber. She was a high honors graduate of Weaver High School in Hartford and the Payroll Supervisor for the Department of Children and Families for the State of Connecticut, retiring at 77. A strong-willed and independent mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and aunt, she was the wife of the late William S. Toubman, who passed away when she was 47. She leaves six children and their spouses, Andrea and David White of San Antonio, TX, Elliot and Jennifer lee Taubman of Block Island, RI, Allan and Kathleen Toubman of Readfield, ME, Stephen Toubman and Magdalena Guinez of Mansfield, Ilene and Mark Coman of East Haddam and Sheldon Toubman and Claire Morduch of Guilford; nine grandchildren: Rebekka Kai, Sean, Rebecca, Jessica, Will, Naomi, Maya, Francisca and Jose; and four great-grandchildren: Lauren, Rose, Wilder and Kendall. She also leaves her very close nieces, Susan Golden, Alita Robin Giber and Sarita Abby Belmont, and their families. She was predeceased by her brother, Daniel B. Giber. Funeral services are being held Monday, October 12, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. in the Chapel of the Weinstein Mortuary, 640 Farmington Ave., Hartford, with interment in the Chevry Lomday Meshnayes Cemetery, Garden St., Hartford [Next to Kenney Park]. Donations may be made to the American Jewish World Service, 45 W 36th Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10018-7904. For further information, directions, or to sign the guest book for Miriam, please visit online at www.weinsteinmortuary.com.