Introduction

Leba Strassberg was more than the wife of legendary singer-songwriter Neil Sedaka — she was his lifelong partner, creative supporter, and the quiet strength behind one of pop music’s most enduring careers.

Following Sedaka’s passing at the age of 86, public attention has naturally turned toward the woman who stood beside him for over six decades. Known for timeless hits like Breaking Up Is Hard to Do, “Oh! Carol,” and “Laughter in the Rain,” Sedaka’s musical legacy is monumental. But behind the global fame was a deeply rooted family life centered around Leba and their two children, Marc and Dara.

As tributes pour in, Leba Strassberg’s role in Sedaka’s extraordinary journey is finally receiving the recognition it deserves.

Who She Is

Leba Strassberg is the widow of Neil Sedaka and the matriarch of a family deeply connected to music and the arts. Married in 1962, she shared more than 60 years of partnership with one of America’s most beloved singer-songwriters.

While Sedaka commanded stages worldwide, Leba largely remained out of the spotlight, choosing a private life focused on family, stability, and unwavering support.

Why She Is Relevant Now

Recently, Neil Sedaka made headlines when his family confirmed his sudden passing at 86. He was reportedly rushed to a Los Angeles hospital after feeling unwell. A cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, and the family has requested privacy during this difficult time.

In their statement, they described him as “a beloved husband, father and grandfather.” That first word — husband — speaks volumes about Leba Strassberg’s place in his life.

Early Life & Childhood

Leba Strassberg was born into a family connected to hospitality and community life. Her mother, Esther Goldstein Strassberg, was one of the owners of Esther Manor, a resort where Leba first met Neil Sedaka in the late 1950s.

At the time, Sedaka was performing in a band at the hotel. What began as a youthful romance soon evolved into one of the longest marriages in the music industry.

Though Leba kept her early life largely private, her upbringing in a family-run business likely shaped her grounded personality and strong family values.

Family Background, Parents & Siblings

Leba was raised by Esther Goldstein Strassberg, who co-owned Esther Manor. Details about her father or siblings remain private, reflecting the family’s preference for discretion.

Her husband, Neil Sedaka, was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Mac Sedaka, a taxi driver, and Eleanor Sedaka, a homemaker. He studied at the prestigious Juilliard School, where his classical training laid the foundation for his future success.

Together, Leba and Neil built a tight-knit family centered around creativity and mutual support.

Education

While specific details about Leba Strassberg’s education are not publicly documented, her life reflects intelligence, grace, and resilience.

Her husband’s classical training at Juilliard and his early songwriting partnership with Howard Greenfield shaped a demanding artistic life — one that required understanding, patience, and emotional strength from a partner.

Leba provided exactly that.

Career or Profession

Unlike Neil Sedaka, who thrived in public performance, Leba Strassberg chose to focus primarily on family life.

Though not publicly credited as a professional collaborator, she played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in supporting Sedaka’s six-decade career. From the early chart-topping days to his 1970s resurgence — including writing “Love Will Keep Us Together” for Captain & Tennille — Leba remained his constant.

Her influence was especially evident in family-centered projects such as Sedaka’s children’s album Waking Up Is Hard to Do, which involved their son Marc and their grandchildren.

Connection to Neil Sedaka

Leba Strassberg and Neil Sedaka married in 1962 — the same era that saw his breakout hits dominate the charts.

Their relationship endured dramatic shifts in the music industry: from 1950s doo-wop roots with The Tokens, to the British Invasion era, to his 1970s comeback under Elton John’s record label.

Through career highs and commercial downturns, Leba remained a steady presence.

Sedaka often spoke about family as his emotional anchor. When he released Waking Up Is Hard to Do, his son Marc adapted classic songs, and his twin granddaughters — Amanda and Charlotte — made their recording debuts at just five years old. His grandson Michael also became part of the growing family legacy.

This multi-generational collaboration highlights the deeply rooted family culture Leba helped nurture.

Recently, as Sedaka’s passing made global headlines, tributes emphasized his musical genius. But for Leba, the loss is profoundly personal — the end of a 60-plus-year love story.

Personal Life / Relationships

Leba and Neil Sedaka’s marriage is often cited as one of the most enduring unions in entertainment history.

They had two children:

• Marc Sedaka — A successful screenwriter based in Los Angeles, married to Samantha Sedaka. They share three children: Amanda, Charlotte, and Michael.

• Dara Sedaka — A recording artist and vocalist for television and radio commercials.

The Sedaka family became both creative collaborators and emotional pillars for one another.

Leba’s identity as wife, mother, and grandmother defined her public presence far more than celebrity status ever did.

Net Worth

Leba Strassberg’s individual net worth is not publicly disclosed.

Neil Sedaka, however, accumulated significant wealth over his six-decade career, earning multiple Grammy nominations and penning chart-topping hits across generations. His enduring catalog continues to generate royalties and cultural relevance.

Interesting Facts About Leba Strassberg

1. She met Neil Sedaka at her family’s resort in the late 1950s.

2. She was married to him for over 60 years — since 1962.

3. She helped nurture a multi-generational artistic family.

4. Her grandchildren recorded backup vocals on Sedaka’s children’s album.

5. She maintained a remarkably private life despite global fame.

 

Recent News or Updates

Neil Sedaka passed away at 86 after reportedly being rushed to a Los Angeles hospital. His family confirmed the news in a statement but did not disclose a cause of death.

He is survived by Leba Strassberg, their children Marc and Dara, and three grandchildren.

While the world remembers a legendary hitmaker, Leba grieves the loss of her husband of more than six decades.

Conclusion

Leba Strassberg’s story is not one of stage lights or chart positions — it is one of loyalty, partnership, and quiet strength.

For over 60 years, she stood beside Neil Sedaka as he wrote songs that defined generations. While fans celebrate classics like “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,” Leba remembers the man behind the melody.

In the end, her legacy is inseparable from his — not as a footnote in music history, but as the heart of a lifelong love story.

FAQ

Who is Leba Strassberg?
Leba Strassberg is the wife of late singer-songwriter Neil Sedaka and the mother of his two children.

How long were Neil Sedaka and Leba Strassberg married?
They were married for over 60 years, tying the knot in 1962.

How many children does Leba Strassberg have?
She has two children — Marc Sedaka and Dara Sedaka.

Did Leba Strassberg work in music?
She did not pursue a public music career but supported Neil Sedaka’s artistic journey throughout his life.

What was Neil Sedaka’s cause of death?
As of now, his family has not publicly disclosed the exact cause of death.