MALCOLM LEE "MAL" SHERMAN

SHERMAN, Malcolm Lee "Mal" Devoted Family Man, Accomplished Businessman and Passionate Philanthropist Of Dedham, formerly of Wellesley and Mashpee. Mal passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, after a brief illness, on March 7, 2026 at the age of 94. He lived a life marked by dedication to family, career, community, and country. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the beautiful life he lived, the stories we share, the values he instilled, the lasting mark he left on all of our lives. Born in Boston, MA on August 3,1931, the middle child of S. Richard and Celia (Marcus) Sherman. An active scholar, Mal graduated Newton High School with many lifelong friends. Mal graduated from Cornell University in 1953 with a degree in philosophy. His intellectual curiosity and love for learning remained constants throughout his life, having a particular interest in both reading history and mystery novels. In 2014, he was honored with a Doctorate in Humane Letters from Brandeis University. His commitment to the university was unwavering. He served as a Trustee beginning in 1981, was Chairman of the Board of Trustees from 2007-2013, and then held the title of Trustee Emeritus until his passing. Mal's professional journey was equally remarkable. Following the family tradition, he began his career in the shoe industry before joining the Zayre Corporation, ultimately becoming the Chairman of Zayre Stores and Executive Vice President of Zayre Corporation until 1987. Mal embarked on a second career advising companies focused on restructuring or growth, continuing to provide guidance until his final days, culminating his eight-decade career. A proud veteran of the Korean War, Mal served with distinction after studying at the Army Language School in California. Fluent in Chinese due to this training, he worked as an interpreter during his service and maintained this linguistic skill throughout his life. His pride of country led to decades of engagement and support of Democratic causes and campaigns. Mal's passions extended far beyond his professional associations. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he was deeply committed to the Boston Celtics as both an enthusiastic spectator and board member during two of their world championship years, and a passionate season ticket holder for the New England Patriots, attending numerous Super Bowl games. On the waters off Cape Cod, Mal found joy captaining his beloved boat "Best Day" and puttering around Ockway Bay in his Whaler. He also delighted in mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and businesspeople across generations and was a successful angel investor in many diverse ventures. In every role that he held, Mal's impact reached far beyond the titles and responsibilities, with everyone he met. Mal's philanthropic spirit extended into many areas of cultural enrichment, social good and religious participation. In addition to his service at Brandeis University, he served as the Chair of Boards of Trustees of the Museum of Science (Boston), the Two Ten Footware Foundation, and Tufts Medical Center, as well as an overseer of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and board member of numerous Jewish organizations. He was a lifelong member of Temple Beth Elohim in Wellesley. Above all else, Mal cherished his family. He is survived by Barbara (Cantor), his beloved wife of 67 years; their daughter Robin; and granddaughters Jessica and Lila, all of whom brought immense joy to his life. He was predeceased by his parents, sister Cynthia (Richard) Steinberg; and brother Norman (Barbara) Sherman. Mal will be remembered for his boundless energy, sharp intellect, war, personality, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Whether discussing business strategies or sharing stories about sports or family adventures, he left an indelible mark on everyone he met. Funeral services will be held 10:30 am, Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Rd., Wellesley, MA. Burial will follow at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA. Shiva will follow interment at NewBridge on the Charles, 5000 Great Meadow Rd., Dedham, MA until 4:30 pm and will continue at the home of Robin Sherman 7-9 pm and Thursday from 1-4 pm. In lieu of flowers, please send expressions of sympathy to Brandeis University, 415 South St., Waltham, MA. May Mal's memory serve as a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew him.

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