Marcus Lazar Bruchis

Marcus Lazar Bruchis, a man whose warmth, wit, and genuine care for others left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him, passed away on April 26, 2026. He was, as those who loved him would say, a unique spirit, and the world is quieter without him.

Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, Marcus grew up in Birmingham, Alabama, where his roots in the Jewish community ran deep, from JCC camp to NCSY, forming friendships and a faith that would shape him throughout his life. He went on to the University of Alabama, where he was a proud member of the ZBT fraternity and became a devoted Alabama football fan, a devotion that, his family will tell you, was not merely a hobby but a way of life. There was very little that could compete with Crimson Tide football on a Saturday. Very little.

Marcus began his professional career in New Orleans with Xerox before finding his true calling in real estate, a field in which he would spend decades building a remarkable legacy. His journey took him from Montgomery, where he launched his career with Aronov, to Birmingham with Bayer Realty and then Hibbett Sports, back to Montgomery with Aronov, and onward as a broker with Rainbow. In every chapter, he was known as a mentor, a deal maker, and someone who showed up fully for the people around him. For the last ten years, Marcus called Atlanta home, where he was close to both of his children and their families, including his son Michael and daughter-in-law Ashley, his daughter Leah and son-in-law Benton, and his two grandchildren who became the greatest joys of his life.

Beyond real estate and Alabama football, Marcus had a soul that was drawn to beauty and storytelling. He loved Broadway, truly loved it, and could often be found singing along to his favorite musicals with unabashed joy. He was a devoted student of film, with strong opinions about the classics and the actors who made them timeless.

But more than any of it, more than the deals, the touchdowns, or the show tunes, Marcus Bruchis was known for how he made people feel. Colleagues became friends. Friends became family. He mentored people who went on to mentor others, and his influence rippled far beyond what he ever allowed himself to fully see or believe. He was kind. He cared deeply. And he was loved, so much more than he ever knew.

Marcus is survived by his son, Michael Bruchis and wife Ashley Bruchis; his daughter, Leah Bruchis Watson and husband Benton Watson; and his grandchildren, Zoe Watson and Mayer Watson. He is also survived by Susan Mayer Sass, his former wife and cherished lifelong friend, who remained family in every sense of the word, and by Susan's sister, Betsy Mayer, who held a very special place in his life and heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Saul and Ruth Bruchis, and his brother, Aaron Bruchis, and Aaron's wife, Frankie Bruchis.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorials to the Morris Lehman Mayer Award at the University of Alabama, which honors one graduating senior and one teaching faculty member who exemplify the values Marcus lived by: selfless service, meaningful leadership, and integrity in enriching the lives of others.

He will be missed by so many. Roll Tide, Marcus.

A funeral service will be held at Leak Memory Chapel, 945 Lincoln Rd, Montgomery, Alabama 36109, on May 1, 2026, at 2:00 pm, with graveside to follow in Greenwood Cemetery.