In a touching tribute to his wife of 68 years late last week, billionaire Westfield founder Sir Frank Lowy said at her funeral that her life's agenda was to look after him and their three sons. Never herself.

Shirley Lowy, who died in Tel Aviv at the age of 86 on December 9, was dedicated to her role as wife and mother and believed in traditional marriage. Even when she studied an arts degree at UNSW when her three sons, David, Peter and Steven, had grown up, Lady Lowy ensured she arrived home before any of the men so there was no disruption to the household and dinner would be ready.