Murray R. Horowitz

Murray Roy Horowitz passed away early in the morning on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2009, in his home. Born Oct. 5, 1945, in Baton Rouge, Murray graduated from Baton Rouge High School, Class of 1963. He then went on to graduate from Washington University in St. Louis, Mo., in 1968. He spent four years in the U.S. Air Force, and after reaching the rank of captain, was honorably discharged and moved back to Baton Rouge to take over City Pawn Shop from his father. Owner and operator of City Pawn Shops since 1972, he loved being a pawn broker, loved engaging with his customers, and always thought of his employees and colleagues as family. A beloved family member, community member, and friend, he was dedicated to serving the Baton Rouge community, in politics, as a volunteer in the Sheriff's Flotilla, as a businessman, and as an active member of Beth Shalom Synagogue. He was a committed friend to Israel, and was an active member of AIPAC and LASPAC. An avid traveler, he saw as much of the world as he could, but never failed to come back to the Baton Rouge that he loved. He loved telling stories and making people laugh, and his humor will always be remembered. His family and friends knew that he could always be relied on for advice and support, both of which he gave freely. He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Sheila; sons, Marc and daughter-in-law Charlotte, of Houston, and Steven and daughter-in-law Chika, of San Francisco; sister, Joan Hoffman and husband Joseph; nephew, Benjamin Hoffman; and niece, Andrea Hoffman and husband Ronnie. He was preceded in death by his parents, Meyer and Pearl Glazer Horowitz. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Beth Shalom Synagogue, 9111 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 or Pennington Cancer Center at Baton Rouge General Hospital, Radiation Oncology Department, 8585 Picardy Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70809. Visitation at Rabenhorst Funeral Home East, 11000 Florida Blvd., on Tuesday, Sept. 8, from noon until service at 1 p.m.