Leona Z. Shlosman

Leona Zilbermann Mintz Samuel Shlosman passed away at Lambeth House on February 21, 2024, having recently celebrated her 103rd birthday surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was a lifelong resident of New Orleans, where she graduated from McMain High School and attended Sophie Newcomb College.

A beacon of style and grace, Leona spread warmth and beauty in her personal and professional life. In her role at the family business, Lafayette Furniture Company’s Carriage House, an Ethan Allen dealer, she was honored as one of Ethan Allen’s top designers in the country. She later served as president of Lafayette Furniture Company, a family holding company.

Leona dedicated herself and her time to the New Orleans community as well, serving as president of Touro Synagogue Sisterhood, overseeing a Red Cross shelter and in her role as president of the combined PTA Associations of the Orleans Parish Schools.

Leona approached everything in life with a contagious optimism and unwavering belief in the power of positivity. Her zest for life was matched only by her boundless capacity for love. She treasured her family and they adored their Maw Maw (sometimes known simply as Maws). With a sparkle in her eye, she shared her wisdom and love, inspiring all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Leona was preceded in death by her son, Donald Richard Mintz, and her husbands, H. Leon Mintz, Charles M. Samuel, Jr., and Stanley D. Shlosman. She is survived by her daughter, Melanie Mintz Zurik, son-in-law, Sam Zurik, Jr., and daughter-in-law, Susan Mintz Kantrow (Byron). She is also survived by grandchildren, Sam Zurik, III (Jennifer), Michelle Mintz (Jason Scharfspitz), Arthur Mintz (Theresa), and Lee Zurik (Jenny); and great-grandchildren, Sam Zurik, IV, Daniel Scharfspitz, Will Zurik, Alina Scharfspitz, Ellie Zurik, Megan Zurik, and Elsie Mintz. She is also survived by stepchildren, Larry Samuel (Loel) and Cathy Wolf (Mier); step-grandchildren, Matthew Wolf (Anna), Joanna Pappafotis (George), Steven Sherman, Benjamin Sherman (Lauren), Tom Shlosman (Katie), and numerous step great-grandchildren.

Graveside services for family and friends will be conducted by Rabbi Katie Bauman at 11 a.m. on Sunday, February 25, 2024 at Hebrew Rest Cemetery No. III, 2100 Pelopidas St. in New Orleans. Burial is under the direction of Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home.

The family wishes to thank caregivers, Kandy Crayton, Cheryl McLain, Shenetta Maye, and Olivia Nelson and the staffs of Lambeth House and Guardian Angel Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Donald Mintz Lecture Fund at Touro Synagogue, 4238 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans LA 70115, the American Red Cross, 2626 Canal Street, New Orleans LA 70119, or any nonprofit of choice.

To view and sign the online guest book, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com