Obituary: Marvin Stanley Epstein

It is with love and heavy hearts that the family of Marvin Stanley Epstein, 87, announce his passing, Oct. 29, 2025.

Born on Jan. 9, 1938, Marvin lived a life defined by devotion to his family, his work, and his beloved University of Alabama. Marvin had a distinguished 45-year career as a financial advisor where he earned numerous accolades recognizing his professional excellence and integrity. Admired by his peers, he was known for his wisdom, generosity, and leadership within the financial community. Above all, he was celebrated for his unwavering dedication and tireless commitment to the clients who entrusted him with their futures.

Marvin shared his life with his wife, Carole Anthony Epstein. Together they built a life rich with love, laughter, and family. He was a proud “bonus” father to Gaye Lynn Murdoch (Brian Maddalena) and Joye Anthony Murdoch, a proud grandfather to John David Critchfield, Betsy Joye Murdoch (Mark Mondary), and Ryan Austin Sweeney, and a delighted great-grandfather to 3-year-old Edison Belle Mondary. His bonus family also includes niece, Terri Crowther (Joe), nephew, Tim Harris (Deanna), and their families, as well as nephew, Blaine Harris (Misty), and niece, Lynda Clenney (Scott).

Marvin is also survived by his beloved brother, Richard Epstein (Carole), his nephew, Jason Epstein (Lacey), and niece, Leslie Thompson (Chris). Marvin also was blessed with his great-nephew, Campbell and great-nieces, Sydney and Lilly.

Marvin was proceeded in death by his parents, Flo and Louis Epstein.

Marvin’s lifelong love for the University of Alabama extended far beyond the football field. In a remarkable act of dedication, he was contacted by the president of the University of Alabama to help increase the Jewish student population on campus. Partnering with his dear friend, Bruce Weinstein, and the Jewish Community Center, Marvin helped design a visionary recruitment strategy. Each year, Marvin and Bruce hosted young Jewish students and their families in Atlanta, where the university president and dean of admissions personally presented opportunities and campus life. Over the 15 years that this program flourished, Jewish enrollment at the University of Alabama quadrupled, leaving a legacy that Marvin helped to build.

In honor of Marvin’s enrollment mission, his family and ZBT fraternity are proud to announce the Marvin S. Epstein Memorial Scholarship Fund. In keeping with Marvin’s generous spirit, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Marvin S. Epstein Memorial Scholarship Fund* in lieu of flowers. *When making your donation, please check the “Dedicate my Donation” box and enter Marvin’s name.

Beyond his professional and philanthropic accomplishments, Marvin’s heart was always beating for two things above all else: family and Alabama football. Saturdays in the fall were sacred, spent in crimson and white, cheering for the Crimson Tide whether from the stands in Tuscaloosa or from stadiums across the country. SEC football is more than a pastime; it is a shared joy that ties generations together, a rhythm of loyalty and pride that reflects how Marvin lived his life: with passion, perseverance, and unwavering commitment. His love for Alabama football mirrored his love for his family … fierce, enduring, and full of spirit.

Marvin’s laughter, wisdom, and steadfast presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of devotion to his loved ones and his team will continue to echo through the lives he touched. Roll Tide!