With great sadness, we announce the death of Marilyn Muse Goldfarb on June 2 in Paris, France at the age of 85. Marilyn brought immense energy, style, and enthusiasm to every aspect of life. Above all, she cherished her family deeply. She passed peacefully from heart failure while on a British Isles cruise with her beloved husband of 67 years, Stuart, and their son and daughter-in-law — a trip she had eagerly anticipated. Born on Oct. 25, 1940 in Lexington, Ky. to Eunice Watson Muse and Jesse Muse, Marilyn’s story was one of love and partnership. She met Stuart at just 14 years old. Both attended the University of Kentucky and eloped as college students before later formalizing their union under the rabbi at Temple Adath Israel. Marilyn had a remarkable career in women’s retail clothing management. She co-owned Sportswear Mart in Dayton with Stuart for 22 years, where she excelled in merchandising and staffing while collaborating on all major business decisions. Later, she managed the Saks Fifth Avenue Club in Sarasota for 17 years, catering to a loyal clientele with her impeccable taste and dedication. Marilyn was also passionate about giving back to her community. In Cincinnati, she served as president of Hadassah during her children’s youth. After moving to Sarasota and joining Temple Sinai, she supported the Women of Sinai by rallying efforts for their new kitchen. Even in retirement, Marilyn remained active as a receptionist and intake specialist with the Legal Aid Society for 12 years. She is survived by her husband, Stuart; brother David Muse; children, Rabbi Mark Goldfarb (Deborah), Stacey Jahanfar, and Sandra Goldfarb (Tony); seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many extended family members. She was predeceased by her brother Richard Muse. Donations may be made to SPARCC Rape Crisis Center Sarasota, Legal Aid of Manasota, or Women of Temple Sinai. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.

Our beloved brother, Morris Jay Pavlofsky, passed away peacefully on Aug. 14 in Atlanta. Not only was Morris our brother, but he was a wonderful uncle to his nephews and niece, a cousin to many, and a dear friend to all who crossed his path. Morris was a “gentle giant” and gave teddy bear hugs to those he loved. Morris had quite the personality, too. He enjoyed doing impersonations of many, including Elvis Presley, Bill Clinton, Richard Nixon, and John Belushi. Morris was a gifted musician, a true bon vivant, and a passionate authority on every aspect of food — from its preparation to its production. Morris was an active brother of Sigma Alpha Mu at The Ohio State University, where he held several positions and met many of his lifelong friends that he still spoke with up until his recent illness. His fraternity brothers were real brothers to him. They called Morris a “rare breed,” as he “always looked out for those he collected into his fold.” They were correct in saying Morris had a heart of gold. Morris was a talented salesman and food and freight broker who took his job seriously. For many years, he ran his own business, MP Sales Co. He always had time and patience to take coworkers under his wing and teach them about the food industry. To this day, decades of coworkers still speak highly of Morris and their time working with him. Morris is survived by three sisters, Gayle Pavlofsky, Dee-Dee (David) Stein, and Kathy Pavlofsky; as well as his three nephews and niece, Avi Stein (Dr. Carly Sobol), Judah Stein, Mollie Newell (D.J. Newell), Seth Stein; and grandniece, Addison Stein; as well as countless cousins and dear friends. Interment at Beth Jacob Cemetery. Donations in Morris’ memory can be made to a charity of your choice.

To read the complete September 2026 Dayton Jewish Observer, click here.