Barnard Maltinsky Portman

1942 - 2025

Barnard Maltinsky Portman of Savannah, GA and Herzliya, Israel passed away August 26, 2025. He is survived by his children Daniel (Michal) and Stephanie (Bridget), grandchildren Shir (Itamar), Amit, Roni and Orly, great-grandson Idan, and siblings Barbara, Jerry, Michael, Sarah and Sam.


He was born to the late Ben and Pearl Portman of Isle of Hope September 29th, 1942. He shared a birthday with his sister Barbara who had wished for a sister on her birthday. Instead, she got a legend of a brother.


Barney's youth was full of family, friends, faith, and some classic hijinks with his siblings, including the time a boat ended up driverless on the river with the boys madly swimming behind it as it crashed into a dock.


At some juncture it was decided his active mind and spirit might be better engaged at Benedictine Military School where he excelled and went on to earn a B.A. from University of Florida and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from the University of Virginia. He also proudly served in the US Coast Guard.


He moved back to Savannah after he married the love of his life, Joanne Slavitt Portman of Washington, DC. He established himself as a leading Savannah attorney, heading several partnerships, most recently with Portman & Associates. At home, he ensured his children received a top-notch Jewish and secular education. That would be enough of an achievement for most but it is just a fraction of what he accomplished in his lifetime.


Over the years, Barney served others through faith, public service and general human kindness. He held official roles such as President of the Savannah Jewish Federation, President of Congregation Bnai Brith Jacob Brotherhood, Vice President of the Savannah Hebrew Day School, Head of Hebrah Gemiluth Hessed Society, Member of the United Jewish Appeal Young Leadership Cabinet, and Chatham County Commissioner. He also mentored younger lawyers and changed many lives.


Barney was always up for anything, especially if it involved a beer or ice cream along the way. He had a love of life like no other, with boating and deep sea fishing being his favorite pastimes. He was generous - and could never say no to his beloved grandchildren, the highlight of his life - who adored him and have already started following in his path via successes in university, business and the military. He was giving with his time and heart - always there to listen and offer encouragement and guidance.


After the loss of Joanne, he was heartbroken but forged on. He made aliyah and spent every Shabbat with his family in Israel.


His funeral was held in Modiin, Israel, August 27th and he is most certainly already onto his next adventure, listening to Jimmy Buffet and telling proud stories about all of those who loved him and miss him dearly.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Congregation of Bnai Brith Jacob - Savannah or The Jewish National Fund.