Martin Kaufman

Born on June 15, 1932, in the Bronx, New York, to Rae and David Kaufman, Marty lived a life rooted in service, family, and faith. He spent much of his early life in New Jersey before relocating to South Florida in 1974, and later making Jacksonville his home in 2004.

For almost 69 years, Marty was married to the love of his life, Miriam Kaufman—his beloved “Duchess.” Together, they built a life centered around love, learning, tradition, and giving back.

Marty proudly served in the United States Air Force and remained active in veterans' affairs throughout his life. He was a dedicated member of the Jewish War Veterans, serving as Post Commander in Hillside, NJ, and County Commander for Essex County.

His professional life was rich and varied, with work in the film industry, retail, and later with the Broward County Sheriff's Office. In Jacksonville, he continued his lifelong commitment to civic duty by serving as a local election poll worker and as a board member of the Bartram Springs Community Development District.

A devoted and engaged member of the Jewish community, Marty served as President of Temple Israel of Miramar and chaired Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) commemorations. Marty also co-chaired Operation Isaiah, a High Holy Day food drive at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. He was a passionate supporter of Jewish youth, serving as an advisor to the AZA youth group in Miramar.

Marty believed deeply in the values of mitzvot (good deeds) and Tikkun Olam—the Jewish principle of repairing the world. He lived these values through his countless acts of kindness, generosity, and service to others.

An avid stamp collector, Marty delighted in sharing his hobby with others, often donating stamps to schools, scout troops, and nursing homes to enrich and educate. Though he never attended college in the traditional sense, Marty had an insatiable love for learning. Alongside Miriam, he audited courses at the University of North Florida and, in recognition of their intellectual curiosity and commitment to lifelong learning, both were awarded Honorary Bachelor’s Degrees in Humanities in 2018.

Marty is survived by his cherished wife, Miriam Kaufman; son Richard Kaufman (Beth Mumby), son David Kaufman (Sherry Kaufman), daughter Linda Levin (David Levin); grandchildren Alex and Sarah Mumby, Zachary Kaufman, Lauren Reese (Matt Reese), Hillary Tillman (Zachary Tillman), Rebecca Levin and Naomi Levin; great-grandchildren Carlea Kaufman, Maelyn and Callum Reese, Johnnie Tillman; and sister Shirley Kaplan, predeceased by sister, Norma Golden. Marty’s family was expanded with the addition of Kevin Henry and son James Henry.

Marty’s memory will be a blessing to all who knew him. His life was a testament to love, faith, learning, and the unwavering belief that one person can make the world a better place.

Donations may be made to River Garden Hebrew Home or the Jacksonville Jewish Center Chesed Committee in lieu of flowers.