Murray B. Woldman

Antiques Dealer, Diplomat, and Scholar
Murray B. Woldman, 87, of Alexandria, VA, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, at the Virginia Health Center in Arlington, VA.
Born on October 10, 1937, in Cleveland, OH, Murray was the son of Philip and Lillian Woldman. He was predeceased by his beloved twin brother, Joel Woldman, who passed away in 2007, and his younger sister, Karen Sorkin, who passed in 2025.
Murray and Joel graduated from Brandeis University in 1959, where they earned Bachelor's degrees in Politics. They then pursued graduate studies at the University of Michigan, where both earned Master's and Doctorate degrees in International Relations and South Asian Studies. Murray completed his doctoral dissertation in 1966.
Between 1967 and 1971, Murray served in the U.S. Foreign Service, stationed in India, while Joel was posted in Pakistan. Despite their geographical separation, the twin brothers remained close, often sharing long-distance conversations despite the technical challenges of the time. Their time in South Asia laid the foundation for their lifelong passion for cultural and historical studies.
After their Foreign Service careers, Murray and Joel co-founded Woldman and Woldman Antiques in 1985, an antiques business specializing in 19th-century American and European classical furniture and decorative arts. Their business became known for providing high-quality pieces to museums, historic sites, and private collectors, including consulting for the 1997 film adaptation of Washington Square. The brothers focused on antiques from the late Federal period (1810-1840), establishing themselves as leaders in this niche area. They also advised institutions like Mount Vernon, Blair House, and Colonial Williamsburg.
The Woldman brothers' shared passion for history, culture, and fine antiques was reflected in their carefully curated collection and their travels together, exploring South Asian and European culture, cuisine, and classical music. They also found joy in their Jewish heritage, becoming active members of Congregation Bet Mishpachah, a synagogue for LGBTQ+ Jews, and studying Yiddish at George Washington University.
After Joel's passing in 2007, Murray continued to live in the historic Greek Revival townhouse in Old Town Alexandria that they had lovingly restored together. The Woldmans were only the second family to live in the house, built in 1854, and much of its original charm and character were still preserved. Murray cherished the memories of their shared life in the home.
Murray's life was greatly shaped by his time at Brandeis University, where he and Joel were profoundly influenced by figures like Leonard Bernstein, Martin Luther King Jr., and Eleanor Roosevelt. Their experiences at Brandeis broadened their worldview, and their lifelong intellectual curiosity was fueled by these formative years. Murray frequently spoke fondly of visits from cultural icons like Pete Seeger and Odetta, whose impact stayed with him throughout his life.
In addition to his professional and cultural pursuits, Murray was an avid traveler, always seeking to expand his knowledge and experience new places and ideas. He remained deeply connected to the values of education, culture, and a commitment to preserving history.
Murray is survived by his sister's family, including his brother-in-law, Kenneth Sorkin, and his niece, Julie Sorkin-Maguire, and nephew, Andrew Sorkin. He is also survived by Julie's family, including her husband Conor, and their two children Claire and Simon. His legacy endures through the relationships he fostered, the expertise he shared, and the knowledge he imparted.
Funeral services will be held graveside at Pride of Lynn Cemetery in Lynn, MA, on Sunday, May 4, 2025 at 10:00 AM. Family will sit Shiva immediately following at the Summit Estates Clubhouse in Swampscott, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Murray's memory to the National Kidney Foundation.