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Seymour Gitenstein Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Seymour Gitenstein
Bruce A Schneider
May 28, 2025
I worked for the Gitensteins in New York city, in the Empire State bldg. In the late 60's.
H. David Williamson
December 18, 2023
Memories abound.
Laurie Kaplan Steen
January 7, 2012
Susan, of course I tear-up when seeing these messages, especially your's! Even for me - hard to believe you lost him a little more than one year ago. Let's plan a Friday night to go to Temple Chai for their joyous, song-filled service (6:00 - 7:30 p.m. We can meet the "boys" at the Middle Eastern restaurant around the corner ~ Laurie Kaplan Steen
January 7, 2012
I have so many memories of our conversations in Florala Health & Rehab.
He enjoyed talking about the past in
Florala. I knew most of the people he
amd Anna were friends with. My Aunt
Cleo Adams Braswell worked for him and
he had a lot of memories of her work
days at the Factory. He came to Hobbie's room most every day. I
continued making him hot chocolate after Barbara Raley moved J.T. back
to Andalusia Manor. He would visit
with everyone on our hall, since this
was where he was, in fact in our room.
He was willing to move to the other
hall, since his condition was so much
better than Hobbie. Our family
appreciated this so much. I will always remember Mr. G. Love Betty Hargrove family, 1/7/12
Susan Assadi
January 6, 2012
In memory of my father Seymour. I loved him so much.
It's hard to believe his passing was over a year ago.
Laurie Kaplan Steen
May 1, 2011
I never met Dr. Gitenstein, but have come to know Susan Gitenstein Assadi and Sami Assadi over the past years. His legacy is not to be forgotten. I'm blessed to still have my father, who just turned 83 years young in Memphis, Tennessee. Like Susan, I listen to his voice messages which are full of humor and always make me smile.
Susan Gitenstein Assadi
January 17, 2011
Yesterday was the 1 month anniversary of my father's passing. Every day I still memorialize him by listening to several of his old messages on my cell phone. His voice was distinct and his words of wisdom remain with me. I miss talking with Dad about wonderful movies with as I had one to report to last night. Time is the healer but 'Dad' you will always be alive in my heart.
David Martin
January 4, 2011
Melinda, Joe and I visited Seymour a couple years ago. His was taking a nap when we arrived. Nurses told us to wake him as he would surely want to see us. We did. He immediatly recognized all of us and call us by name. He jumped up out of his bed and escorted us to the visitor's area. He just couldn't seem to express how appreciative he was about our visit. He played the piano, and told many stories about Mom and Dad and Florala in general. He was amazing and thoroughly entertained us! He made a special point to ask about each of us individually. I hope we made Seymour feel as good and comfortable as he did us. He made all of us feel very special that day and a visit we will never forget. Seymour lives on.
Cathy Ray Stanley
January 2, 2011
Mr. Gitenstein did a lot for Florala and the surrounding area. He employed so many people (including my parents, John and Martha Ray) and helped to make Florala a wonderful place to grow up in. He was a true friend to my parents and to our family. I wish I had the words...
My sincere sympathies to his children and to his niece, Emily.
Betty Hargrove
December 30, 2010
Mr. Seymour was a very special friend to
Hobbie & I. We will miss him so much
coming to visit us each day in the FH&R.
He was always doing for other people.
Love, Betty & Hobbie Hargrove
Sami Assadi
December 30, 2010
So much good has been said about you Seymour because you have made such a noble impact on so many people's lives. Your kind generosities are rare in the world we live in these days. You were kind, honest and a very loving father. You served your country and made a real difference, and your legacy is the proof.
To those of us who knew you well, who worked with you, and were close to you, your absence will always be felt. It is going to be difficult and sad to move forward from your loss, but I know that we can learn from your life story and continue in the tradition of your noble life's work.
-Your Son in law
December 30, 2010
I'm missing your calls Dad.
-Susan
Jeana Spears
December 22, 2010
Five years ago, I walked into Florala Health and Rehab for the first time for my interview. The first person that I met as I walked in the door was Mr. G. Now, five years later I walk into the doors at work and a silence fills the halls. It has been an honor and a privilege to care for Mr. G for so long. We were all blessed to have known him. My thoughts and prayers are extended to the Gitenstein family at this time.
December 21, 2010
My father, Mike Mohr, of Montgomery, AL and later of Pensacola, FL was a lifetime friend of Seymour, perhaps 60-65 years; and Mike was proud to be the godfather of Mark Gitenstein. I recall visiting with Seymour and Anna in my youth in Montgomery and Florala, and much later going to concerts with Seymour and my Dad in Pensacola, FL. He gave generously to his community and endowed his talented children with a love of education and with ambition. Rose Mohr Rubin (Memphis, TN)
john schmidt
December 21, 2010
Dr. G:
We will miss you,your great spirit and determination. You enriched the lives of many, especially the youth of Florala and Paxton. The beautiful rose garden on our campus reflects the great love you had for Anna and your family. Rest in peace dear friend embraced by our Lord and loving wife. Your friend, John Schmidt
Lisa McDaniel Crane
December 20, 2010
I was sorry to hear of Mr. Gitenstein's passing and am glad to have had the opportunity last month to visit with him and listen to him play the piano. He was a kind and thoughtful man who always demonstrated such care and concern for our family. His numerous contributions to the community and to the lives of those around him will be remembered.
Laura Bishop
December 19, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of the news of Mr. G's passing. I always loved talking with Mr. G whenever I'd visit my grandmother at a "Home" in Florala, AL, where they both stayed. He was such a wealth of knowledge and had so many wonderful stories about life and his experience's in living it. A true charmer he was indeed! My thoughts and prayers go out to the Gitenstein family...May you rest in peace, Mr. G, and say hello to my Grandma up there with you! =)
Melinda Martin Mansour
December 19, 2010
My two brothers, David and Joe Martin, and I visited Mr. Gitenstein just a few years ago in The Florala Health and Rehab Center. He remembered us, played the piano for us, and we shared several stories and memories. My mother worked closly with Mr. Gitenstien during the years he served on the Florala City School Board of Education. His many contributions to our community will always be remembered and appreciated.
Joyce Davis/Myers
December 19, 2010
My childhood was enriched by the many visits and sleepovers at the Gitenstein home. Growing up in Florala everyone knew of the many contributions Mr. G. and his family made for the betterment of our community and way of life. I so enjoyed our visits at the nursing home and always came away with a deeper understanding of life experiences from him. Comfort and blessings to the family. Rest in peace Mr. G.
Kathy Franklin Jennings
December 19, 2010
My mother Dorothy Franklin worked at his factory for many years. In 1969 I received a scholarship from him in the name of his beloved wife Anna. I remember that he bought music for our Floral Wildcat Band and we gladly played it for him at our band concerts. Florala will not be the same without this very kind and giving man.
Jim Yeaman
December 19, 2010
Mr. Gitenstein and my Mom, the late Mildred Yeaman (who ran the venerable Florala Thrift Store) often would engage in very animated conversations about mutual business interests. It was always a treat to have him walk into the store when I was there helping my Mom - the smile on his face would put us all in a better mood. Thank you for what you did for a better Florala, Mr. G!
Arlton Hudson
December 19, 2010
Mr. Gitenstein was a true giver in life , he took personal gratification in helping others.He will be missed by many but respected by all.
Ann Scofield
December 19, 2010
You were a wonderful man to me and my family. I have enjoyed working with you for 45 years. You taught me a lot and I will have a void in my life but I know you and your beloved wife, Anna, are together again. You meant so much to me. When my husband passed away and I went to make the plans when I opened the funeral home door there you were to greet me. This meant so much to me as well as all you and I went through these years. Rest in Peace, Mr. "G". Love you. Your Devoted Secretary. Ann
My best to his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and all his family and friends.
December 18, 2010
The entire Wertheim family was saddened to hear of your loss. Seymour was a towering presence, and a wonderful friend of the family. My children remember with great fondness that Seymour played the piano and for them and took them to get ice cream when we stopped in Florala on the way to the beach. Condolences to all of you...Mark, Bobbie, and Susie...from
Alice Hart Wertheim.
Julian Hart
December 18, 2010
A true friend to the Van and Carol Hart family - his humor and generosity will be missed but remembered always
December 18, 2010
Mr. Gitenstein enjoyed his role as mentor to my grandson in Mr. Gitenstein's faith. My husband and I enjoyed our visits with him during the last four years when our discussions led to new knowledge for us each time. His mind was so brilliant in that he could remember the exact position many of his employees held at his company in Florala. His children was always close to his heart.
We extend our heartfelt sympathy and compassion to the loved ones left behind.
Mrs. Henry (Judy T.) Jordan
DELBRA THRASH
December 18, 2010
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY NOT ONLY TO HIS FAMILY BUT TO ALL THE LIVES MR. G. AS SO MANY SO LOVINGLY CALLED HIM TOUCHED. HE HAD A DEMEANOR LIKE NO OTHER. HIS PASSING WILL LEAVE A VOID PLACE IN MY HEART AND IN THE CITY OF FLORALA THAT CANNOT BE FILLED. WE LOVE AND MISS YOU MR. G. .......DELBRA T. THRASH
December 18, 2010
I always loved talking with Mr. G. whenever I'd visit my grandma where they stayed in Florala, AL. He was such a wealth of knowledge and w/ many worldly experience(s) & there was always such a sparkle in his eyes when he'd tell me his stories... Although it's been years since we last spoke, I send my deepest sympathy & love to the Gitenstein family....The world has lost a great man...
Renee LeMaire
December 18, 2010
My last visit with Dr. Gitenstein included a richly-described historical tour through Florala. His life touched so many others, and his love and devotion to his beloved Anna never ceased.
Cindy and Bob Hutto
December 18, 2010
Our hearts are saddened to hear about your loss. Mr. G was such a wonderful, giving and intelligent person. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you be comforted by your loving memories of him.
Wilbur and Chris Hunt
December 18, 2010
Mr. Seymour was a dear friend..He called our home every morning until just these past few months just to say hello and have a great day. I know there is a Heaven and he is with his dear Anna once again...We will miss him....
Sidney Price Bailey
December 18, 2010
I remember Mr. and Mrs. Gitenstein very well and appreciated their down to earth attitude and kindness to my family. He played a very important role in the history of Florala with his Franklin-Ferguson factory and will be mised. My thoughts are with Marc, Rose Barbara, and Susan.
Sheila Anderson
December 18, 2010
Deepest sympathy from our family to yours. I will miss visiting with him on my visits to the nursing home...he always wanted to know about my family and talk about his family. Even when it was apparent that his health was failing and that he did not feel well, he always tried to appear happy. He loved giving my mother advice on "how to survive living in the nursing home". He did this with great humor and respect to the residents and staff. His generosity to our commununity has touched so many people and will be a legacy that will continue. I am glad to have known him and that I could call him my friend.
Heath Harrison
December 18, 2010
He was a great man who helped many people, including myself. He will be missed.
H. David Williamson
December 18, 2010
An encourager; a businessman with a clear course; a solid friend of my parents and an associate with my mom in things civic in Florala. He always showed interest in what you were doing. A supporter of Florala's economic and educational well being and whose extended influence was little recognized by his immediate fellow citizens.
Dick Cannon
December 17, 2010
I am proud to say that I worked for Mr. Gitenstein when I graduated from high school. I enjoyed visits with him over these last years and especially enjoyed his wit and was always impressed with his knowledge of things around him and around the world. He was a real gift to this area.
Dick Cannon
Gale Norris Swanson
December 17, 2010
Mr. Gitenstein was a name I grew up knowing. Both my parents worked at the shirt factory for many years. My sister and I received scholarships from him. I last saw him at my Mom's funeral in 2003. I was so surprised to see him there. After talking with him I was even more surprised at the things he remembered about my family. His mind was sharp and he was so humble and loving in his grandfatherly way. I am so thankful for his presence in my life and in the tremendous things he did in and for Florala. My prayers go out to his family...God Bless you all during this time of loss.
December 17, 2010
My mother work at the shirt factory--Mrs. Clyde Love--she worked in the accounting dept. and she always spoke very well about Mr. Gitenstein--and I also was his paper boy for many years--He was always very pleasant and sincere--Ray Love--Arlington,Va.
Sue Goolsby
December 17, 2010
I was one of many who received a scholarship from Mr. Gitenstein in 1960. And most of my immediate family used this hospital at one time or another. Thank you again Mr. Gitenstein, Sue Stinson Goolsby
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