Sanford Schwartz 91, Athens

/AJT/

Sanford “Sandy” Schwartz, 91, of Athens, Ga. (formerly of Winder) died Tuesday, March 18, peacefully at home. Sandy is survived by his wife of 72 years, Florence Casper Schwartz, and two sons, Dale (Susan) and Ron (Andree Kosak); daughter-in-law, Helene Schwartz; grandchildren, Lori (Allan) Peljovich, Leslye (Robert) Goldberg, Laine (Greg) Posel, Ryan Schwartz and Daryn Schwartz; and nine great-grandchildren. Sandy was born on Oct. 14, 1922 in The Bronx, N.Y. to the late Rose and Louis Schwartz. He is predeceased by his sister, Nora Schwartz Reiner. After graduating from DeWitt Clinton High School, Sandy went on to a successful business and civic career. He was owner of Peskin’s Department Store in Winder and Sanford and Son in Athens where he clothed generations of area families, including outfitting Herschel Walker in a custom-tailored tuxedo for his Heisman ceremony. He was also well known as the Maitre D’ at his son Ron’s restaurant, Trumps. Sandy was a true civic leader, holding positions with the Elks Club, Winder Rotary Club, Barrow County Democratic Party, Barrow County Chamber of Commerce, and Winder Library Board. He was also President of Congregation Children of Israel in Athens, where he was a member for almost 60 years. However, he was most proud of his work with the Barrow Regional Medical Center Auxiliary and the American Red Cross, where he volunteered countless hours helping many patients and families. Poppie Sandy was an incredible grandfather to his five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He taught them lessons of love for family and friends, staying in touch with those you care about, loyalty and standing up for your fellow man. His grandchildren fondly remember brightly colored blazers, typewritten letters, M&M’s, Lifesavers, big Cadillacs, the New York Yankees (and the Braves), pigtails, Dumbo stories, “gruzzies” and kisses on both cheeks.

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He will be missed by all who knew him. Contributions in memory of Sandy may be made to the Schwartz Symposium Fund at Congregation Children of Israel, 115 Dudley Drive, Athens, GA 30606. A memorial service was held on Thurs., March 20, at 1:30 p.m. at Congregation Children of Israel. Online condolences may be offered at www.bernsteinfuneralhome.com. Bernstein Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.