Morris H. "Morrie" Weinstein

Morris “Morrie” H. Weinstein passed away in March 2026. Born in 1931, Morrie grew up during the Depression and World War II, helping at his father’s bicycle shop. As a teenager he traveled often to New York City with friends to hear jazz and formed a lasting friendship with Dizzy Gillespie. After high school he moved to Florida, selling vacuum cleaners door to door, before returning to Rochester where he began his long career in the furniture business.

With determination and sales skill, Morrie rose to become President and partner of Flanigan’s Furniture. Under his leadership the company grew from a single store into New York State’s largest retail furniture chain. When Flanigan’s was sold to Raymour Furniture in the mid-1980s, he continued with the company until retiring at the age of 90.

Morrie shared 51 loving years with his wife Beverly. Together they raised their children, traveled the world, and remained deeply involved in their synagogue and Jewish community organizations. He served as National President of the ULP fraternity, as Treasurer and then President of Temple B’rith Kodesh—where he founded the TBK Brotherhood—as Chairman of the Board of the Jewish Home of Rochester, and as President of the Northeast Lakes Council of the Union for Reform Judaism. Following the loss of their daughter Debra Lynn, Morrie and Beverly established the Debra Lynn Memorial Fund to bring educational speakers and music to the temple. They also quietly supported the education of several Ethiopian Israeli girls, whom they regarded as extended daughters.

Morrie is survived by his wife Beverly; their children Sheri (Ivan) Levi, Shelly Weinstein, Rene (Simon) Firmin, and Scott (Alison) Weinstein; his brother Rodger and sister-in-law Linda Weinstein; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his cherished grandchildren Jeremy, Elliana, and Samantha Levi; Delaney, Ryan, and Griffin Firmin; and Drew and Ari Weinstein. He found joy in jazz, Broadway musicals, classic films, travel, chocolate, and above all in the company of family and friends. He touched many lives through his generosity and quiet kindness and will be deeply missed.