Simon Offit

Simon Benson Offit, of Pompano Beach, Florida, passed away on Thursday, October 30th, 2025, at the age of 94. He is survived by his beloved partner of many years, Peter Cowan; adored nieces and nephews, Brian (Caren) Meritt, Bonnie (Robert) Garonzik, Joy (Steven) Sibel, Alan Jacobs and Carl (Janet) Jacobs; niece-in-law, Adele Meritt; and many cherished great-nieces and great-nephews. Simon was predeceased by his beloved partner, Donald Wilkinson; loving parents, Lena L. and Morris A. Offit; devoted siblings, Ethel (Nat) Jacobs, Jean (Meyer) Meritt and Howard (JoanBette) Offit; and dear niece and nephews, Paul B. Meritt, Robin Offit, Robert Seff Offit.

Simon Offit graduated from Loyola College and pursued further studies at Johns Hopkins University before joining his family's business, the Aetna Shirt Corp., a menswear manufacturing company. Over the years, he rose to become the firm's head of sales, publicity, and promotion in New York. Upon retiring in 1988, Simon relocated to Palm Beach, where he became deeply involved in the local arts community.

A passionate philanthropist, Simon was a founding supporter of the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts and, beginning in 2004, served as chairman of the School of the Arts Foundation, as well as vice president of the School of the Arts Foundation Guild. His commitment to the arts and to charitable causes only grew after his move to Florida. In addition to his work with the Kravis Center and the Dreyfoos School of the Arts, Simon dedicated his time and leadership to numerous Palm Beach organizations. He served as president of the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, co-chair of the Men's Committee of the Elizabeth Norton Society of the Norton Museum, and chairman of the Palm Beach Division of the Guild for the Blind.

Simon's love of the arts began in childhood and remained a defining part of his life. Curious and adventurous by nature, he was an avid traveler who especially cherished spending summers in Italy. He and his partner, Peter, also enjoyed extended vacations in Southern California and other destinations.

Simon will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Services at Sol Levinson's Chapel, 8900 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville, MD 21208, on Sunday, November 2nd, 2025, at 12:30 pm. Interment Beth El Memorial Park. Please omit flowers. Contributions in his memory may be sent to Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts Foundation, 501 S. Sapodilla Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. The family will be in mourning at 3607 Michelle Way, Pikesville, MD 21208, immediately following interment, with services Sunday evening. Please check the Sol Levinson website for updated Shiva times.