Obituary: Edward Lee Wexler - Atlanta Jewish Times

Edward Lee Wexler, 86, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Jan. 27, 2025. Born in Erie, Penn., Ed graduated from Academy High School. As an “old soul” and natural leader, he skipped college to manage a large department store and, by age 20, was trusted with opening new stores. While opening a store in Elyria, Ohio, he met the love of his life, Linda Rothman, from Lorain. They married in June 1960 when Linda was 19 and Ed was 21, and had three children: Robin, Larry, and Marci.

Professionally, Ed had two careers. He either owned or managed ladies’ clothing stores in Lorain (Ted Jacobs), Erie (Ed Wexler’s Sugar and Spice), Sandusky, Ohio (Carol Crane), and Savannah, Ga. (Town & Country). In his mid-50s, Ed realized he could no longer compete with large department stores. So, after completing the requisite tests, he changed careers and was successful in selling life and health insurance for 15 years. Throughout his life, Ed made it a priority to be a leader in every city he lived in. He learned from his father, Morris Wexler, the importance of traditions, community, and the special bonds of his Jewish faith. Ed served as president of the congregation in every city he lived in; chaired or served on numerous boards; co-wrote the constitution for Rambam Day School in Savannah; and received a special recognition for his lifetime commitment to the Savannah Jewish community and community at-large before moving to Atlanta.

Ed will be remembered for his love of family. His love for his children was only exceeded by their love and respect for him. His open-heartedness and kindness touched many lives. He was known for his great judgment, compassion, and empathy, and a reliable resource for anyone seeking advice on issues large and small. He also possessed a quick wit and showed tremendous resilience in facing life’s adversities.

His greatest personal adversity occurred on Oct. 2, 2003, when Linda, his wife of 43 years, died suddenly at age 62. This was followed by the early deaths of his sister, Elaine, and brother, Alan, over the next 15 months. Ed also faced many medical adversities himself. Despite these challenges, he continued being a leader in the Savannah community, including becoming the oldest president of Agudath Achim Congregation at age 70. After 31 years in Savannah, he retired and moved to Huntcliff Summit Senior Independent Living in Atlanta to be closer to his children. There, relying once again on the traits that made him so special, he soon made close friendships with many residents and, in looking for ways to make a difference, he quickly became president of the association, formed the ROMEO Club (Retired Old Men Eating Out) for monthly outings to nearby restaurants, spent hundreds of hours teaching people to play Pinochle, started annual Pinochle tournaments, and served as “rabbi” for High Holidays and other occasions. He also dipped his toes in politics by hosting receptions at Huntcliff for senatorial and house candidates.

As his health declined, he moved to assisted living; however, before doing so, he was recognized by Huntcliff for his many contributions to their community. For the past two years, he lived in assisted living at Brickmont and most recently Hammond Glen, and at both places he continued to make a positive impact in people’s lives and these facilities, despite his increasingly debilitating physical limitations.

Throughout the many phases of his life, Ed was an important person in the lives of so many people and will be sorely missed. He is survived by his children Robin Wexler, Larry Wexler (Dawn), and Marci Copeland (Kevin); his grandchildren, Locke, Nick, Arielle, and Aiden; his sisters-in-law, Joni Gary and Cindy Wexler; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family thanks the many doctors and healthcare professionals (and you know who you are) who helped Ed live such a long life, as well as the compassionate leaders and staff at Huntcliff Summit and Hammond Glen.

A graveside funeral was held at 2:30 p.m. at North Atlanta Memorial Park, 5188 Winters Chapel Road, Dunwoody, GA 30360. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Ed’s memory to the Jewish Family & Career Services of Atlanta or a worthy charity of your choice.

The family received those wishing to celebrate Ed’s life at the home of Marci and Kevin Copeland following the funeral services. Remembrances can be shared on Dressler’s website. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

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