News Summary
Jerrold L. Lavine, a well-known Rhode Island businessman and philanthropist, passed away at the age of 85. He was recognized for his significant contributions to the state’s economy through his entrepreneurial ventures and philanthropic efforts. Lavine’s legacy includes leadership roles in various organizations and continuous support for the community. He is survived by his wife and children, leaving behind a lasting impact on Rhode Island.
Providence, RI – Jerrold L. Lavine, a prominent Rhode Island businessman and philanthropist, passed away on Monday, September 22, 2025, at the age of 85, surrounded by his family. Lavine, who was born in Providence, dedicated his entire life to the Ocean State, where he made significant contributions through his entrepreneurial ventures and philanthropic efforts.
He was educated at Boston University and had a distinguished career as a serial entrepreneur, particularly in the distribution industry. Lavine led Globe Distribution, recognized as one of the nation’s largest auto parts and accessories distributors. He also served as Chairman & CEO of The Freeman Group, Ltd., where he was well-respected for his leadership and mentorship, shaping the careers of numerous individuals across the region’s business community.
Lavine’s influence extended beyond the boardroom into public service. He served as Director of Administration to Governor Bruce Sundlun during a transformative period in Rhode Island’s history. His pragmatic approach as chairman of the Rhode Island Solid Waste Management Corporation resulted in significant improvements in state operations. Additionally, Lavine contributed to civic life by serving as a long-term member of the Board of Trustees at Roger Williams University, where he held positions of treasurer and co-chair of the presidential search committee.
In recognition of his contributions, Lavine was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Business Management from Roger Williams University in 2009. The esteemed institution also honored the Lavine family by naming the Lavine Family Lobby at the Gabelli School of Business, and Lavine received the inaugural President’s Medallion of Honor for his long-term dedication and service.
Lavine’s commitment to the community extended into the Jewish community, where he served as Endowment Chair Emeritus at Temple Emanu-El in Providence. He supported various congregational initiatives alongside his wife, Barbara, with whom he shared a loving marriage of 64 years. Furthermore, Lavine played a critical role in the regional healthcare sector as a Life Governor of The Miriam Hospital Foundation.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara (Showstack) Lavine, and their four children: Jeffrey (and wife, Jennifer), Jonathan (and wife, Jeannie), Marc (and wife, Lori), and Elisa Buchsbaum (and husband, Gordon). Lavine’s legacy continues through his nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, who cherish his stories, humor, and encouragement.
Lavine’s life was characterized by service, creativity, and a generous spirit, qualities that he imparted to his family and community.
Funeral services for Jerrold L. Lavine will take place on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 10:00 am at Temple Emanu-El, located at 99 Taft Avenue, Providence, RI, with burial following at Sharon Memorial Park in Sharon, MA. The family will hold Shiva at Temple Emanu-El, Providence, on Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, with Minyan at 5:45 pm. They will also welcome visitors at the home of Jonathan and Jeannie Lavine in Lexington, MA, on Monday, September 29, from 6:30 to 9:00 pm, and at the home of Jeffrey and Jennifer Lavine in Scarsdale, NY, on September 29 and 30 from 1:00-4:00 pm and 6:00-8:30 pm, with evening services at 7:45 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lavine Torah Tutor Fund at Temple Emanu-El, located at 99 Taft Avenue, Providence, RI 02906, and the Lavine Scholarship Fund at Roger Williams University, Office of the President, 1 Old Ferry Road, Bristol, RI 02809.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Remembering Jerrold L. Lavine: A Legacy in Rhode Island
Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: Obituary of Jerrold L. Lavine
- Wikipedia: Business Philanthropy
- Legacy: Charlene Creighton Obituary
- Google Search: Jerrold Lavine
- Dignity Memorial: Jerrold Lavine
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Philanthropy
- Providence Journal: Obituary of Sharon Pace
- Google News: Rhode Island Business
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
