Sidney Levine
Sidney Levine, a beloved communal leader and successful local contractor, died peacefully on Sunday, January 10th at his home. He was 88 years old.
Sidney was a proud and lifelong Memphian, born here on July 18, 1932 to the late Mark and Mary Levine. He attended Central High School, studied engineering at Vanderbilt University, and served in the Korean War. After returning from the service he moved back to Memphis where he went on to work in construction with his uncle, Milton Angel, who saw Sidney like a son. Years later, Sidney would start his own successful construction company, Levine & Poor. In August of 1960, Sidney would marry the love of his life, Joyce, and they spent 60 inseparable years together. They had two children, Missy – who helped care for him during his recent illness; and Mark, of blessed memory.
Sidney was well known by his family and friends as someone who was both sharp and sensitive. A quiet gentleman, everyone knew that when Sidney had something to say, it would be sage counsel. Many people would go to him for advice and trusted his insights and opinions. Sidney used his talents for the benefit of his community and served as a leader in many local institutions. His greatest love beyond his family was for the Baron Hirsch Congregation. In the 1980s, Sidney, together with Milton Angel, chaired the congregation’s construction of the new East Memphis facility, an edifice which continues to inspire and instill awe in all who visit. Later in the 1990’s, he would serve as congregation president of Baron Hirsch. He knew every inch of the building and would even be sought after on building issues some 30 years later. He served as president of the Memphis Jewish Home when it was built and dedicated its facility in Cordova, and he served as president of the Memphis Jewish Community Center, playing a critical role there as well.
Sidney was a man of intense faith, who loved to learn and study the Torah. He built strong relationships with many rabbis who would study with him. He loved attending services at Baron Hirsch, which he did regularly until recent years. He was kind, fair and just, and will be remembered as a man of great integrity and honesty to all who knew and loved him.
Private funeral services were held in the Baron Hirsch Cemetery on Monday, January 11th. The family requests that donations be made to Baron Hirsch Congregation.