Herbert S. Lehman - father, pioneering technologist, gifted athlete, and beloved friend to many - passed away after a life marked by curiosity, accomplishment, and an extraordinary ability to connect with people.
Herb earned his M.S. in Physical Chemistry from Purdue University and spent much of his career at IBM in East Fishkill, NY, where his scientific innovations and patents contributed to foundations of modern semiconductor technology. His work helped make transistors smaller, more reliable, and easier to manufacture during the early years of integrated electronics. Beyond his technical achievements, he was widely respected for his calm demeanor, thoughtful leadership, and exceptional social diplomacy, qualities that led him into senior executive roles during a pivotal era in computing. After retiring in 1994 from IBM, he began a second career at the Georgia Institute of Technology as Director of the Yamacraw Research Center and other institutes, where his leadership helped foster research programs, startup companies, and job creation.
Outside of work, Herb was an accomplished athlete. In his youth, he was a track sprinter, and that track-star speed carried into other sports, shaping the way he played baseball, basketball, and college football. Over time, tennis became his enduring passion. He played the game beautifully until nearly age 80, and even after his speed inevitably faded, he relied on anticipation, touch, and an exceptional feel for the game. Tennis remained a constant throughout his life - both on the court and as a shared pleasure with friends.
Herb lived by a simple philosophy: to engage fully in life for as long as possible. He resisted slowing down and remained socially and intellectually active, continuing to play tennis and bridge (certified Grand Master Bridge player) until recently. He had a sharp, understated wit and a calm, steady presence that put people at ease. A natural connector, he had more friends than his family could count, and they loved him dearly. Conversation, laughter, and companionship were central to his life, and he filled his days with all three.
He was husband to Linda Lehman for 28 years until her passing in 2022. Earlier in life, he was married to Arleen Lehman, with whom he raised four children. He is survived by his children Elisa Lehman, Michael Lehman, Brad Lehman, Sheryl Lehman, step-daughter Susann Estroff, and grandchildren Eric Lehman and Ryan Lehman. He will also be missed by his many friends and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his brother Leon Lehman and his sister Rosalyn Meyers.
Herb Lehman’s legacy lives on in the technology he helped create and, more importantly, in the example he set - of intellect paired with kindness, achievement balanced with joy, and a life lived fully.
A graveside service will be held Sunday, January 18 at 12:00 p.m. at Arlington Memorial Park, 201 Mt. Vernon Highway NW, Sandy Springs, GA 30328. The service will be outdoors; attendees are advised to dress for cold weather. A reception will follow at approximately 1:30 p.m. at Sandy Springs Chapel, 136 Mt. Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, GA 30328.
