Dear Matt and the Levinson Family,
On behalf of the entire Brager family, I want to thank you for your kindness during our very difficult time. The Levinson way is a treasure to the Baltimore community. Every detail was taken care of with love and compassion. Thank you again for your many kindnesses.
— Marlene Brager (Boynton Beach, FL)
As always, the kindness, respect, and dignity that epitomizes Levinson's was obvious. You went above and beyond what is necessary and I am very grateful.
— Shazy King (Baltimore, MD)
From the moment we called you, and continuing even now, your service has been caring, meticulous, organized and knowledgeable. Your expertise and concern are much appreciated, encompassing the expected elements of funerals as well as the unexpected ones such as videos of the funeral accessible to out-of-town viewers, and checklists encompassing the myriad of post-funeral details.
— Ellin Scholnick (Columbia, MD)
I want to thank you for many things. Eric helped my mom and I set up her pre-burial plan, which allowed us to really know that we were doing the things she would want. From the time I notified you of her death, through the funeral and afterward, everything was taken care of. You are perfectionists, and that is particularly needed when families are grieving. Thank you so much.
— Janice Singer (Natick, MA)
The whole process of dealing with a funeral was made stress free by Levinson's. Starting with the first phone call I made, and then the prompt return call assuring me that everything would be taken care of, was a relief to me. The next day, Eliza was so calming, reassuring and fabulous working with us. Again, I was so grateful for the fine service. Paul, our driver, couldn't have been nicer or more accommodating. Everyone we dealt with was kind and respectful! Levinson's made what could have been a terrible situation a pleasant one. I feel my mother had everything she would have wanted for her funeral and more!
— Naomi Lazerow (Baltimore, MD)
I can't tell you how pleased we were with the services you provided. The people you sent to New York for the funeral were terrific and made things much easier for us. In addition, your continued follow-up to offer grief counseling and other related aid speaks to your concern, understanding and professionalism.
— Ron Kestenbaum (Bonita Springs, FL)
Dear Justan, thank you for the tender, complete and caring help you gave me in laying my father to rest. Sol Levinson's provides "TLC" and a feel of caring and family that is so sincere. Thank you all. Continue your great work for generations to come.
— Nancy Marks (Baltimore, MD)
We were very pleased with all aspects of the funeral arrangements for my father. Matt Levinson was especially helpful. His quiet, respectful and caring demeanor helped to make a very sad occasion a little easier. Every employee we met with was also extremely polite and reverent.
— Debbie Satisky (Owings Mills, MD)
At a very emotional time in our lives, your staff takes the time to be warm, compassionate and understanding to the family. Your staff takes care of every detail. They are professional, kind, understanding, warm and knowledgeable. They get their job done proficiently and try to make this sad time in our lives a bit easier to cope with. It's not an easy job, but you all are wonderful with how you handle every aspect. Thanks to all of you.
— Marsha Pinson (Owings Mills, MD)
The warmth, kindness and support I received were wonderful. Special appreciation to Greg King and Ira Levinson for their very large hearts and excellent service while I was dissolving. My family feels the same gratitude. Thank you again.
— Eileen N. Rubin (Baltimore, MD)
During this difficult time, we couldn't have asked for better service and commitment to making our family feel comfortable. You were able to help us plan everything, and made sure we did not forget anything. We greatly appreciate all the love and care you showed our family. Your team made this time easier for us.
— The Family of Klara Marmer (Reisterstown, MD)
Thank you so much for making a very difficult period immediately following the death of my husband as easy as possible for me and my family. I was particularly grateful for the live-stream of the funeral service - and for its subsequent availability online. This made it possible for far-flung family and friends to be a part of this very memorable event. Much to my amazement, I learned that many Baltimore Jewish friends were not aware of this very special element of your program. The dvd of the service will be a cherished family memento. My sincere appreciation for your kind, yet professional operation.
— Elaine Freeman (Baltimore, MD)
Thanks so very much for all the many kindnesses you performed on our behalf - from the extreme courtesy and cooperation of the two men who came to transport my mother, to Ira's taking care of us after the Tahara, and the assistance regarding the Shmira, the actual funeral itself and the burial. We are profoundly grateful.
— Yisroel Reznitsky (Baltimore, MD)
From the beginning of the planning a burial for my dad, your service was outstanding. Adam was my contact and he answered every question and arranged to have everything done. My dad's trip home to Baltimore was handled with great respect.
— Phyllis Dreyfuss (Potomac, MD)
I apologize for not being able to name all of the Levinson employees and members who carried out this sad experience with the utmost sensitivity and care, and that includes everyone with whom we came into contact. It is not always true that just because a company has a long history that it can maintain its quality of service through the years. In the case of Levinsons (as we all refer to you) your standards have not diminished even as the sensitivity in so many things has diminished over the years, and for that, we are grateful. We are fortunate to have you as part of the Jewish community.
— Naomi Levin Gershan (Finksburg, MD)
Thank you for everything you did during this very difficult time. Eliza's compassion, patience and planning provided a level of service that needs no improvement. Todd was also compassionate, warm and caring. We didn't have to worry about the details, which allowed us to focus on our family. Everyone we dealt with provided comfort to our family.
— Jade Lin (Strawberry Plains, TN)
Levinson's has always had a fine, upstanding reputation. I found warmth, caring, and concern with every phone call and meeting. Your company has thought of every concern someone going through a difficult time might need.
— Shirley Sutton (Baltimore, MD)
The service my family received was exceptional. Adam was professional, kind and efficient. I appreciated Adam's helpfulness and suggestions as I wasn't thinking clearly at the time. I also appreciated the list of things we would need to do - that was extremely helpful. There is no one thing to call out -- everything was done beautifully, and I am so extremely grateful for the professionalism and thoughtfulness shown to my family and me.
— Lisa Roach (Edgewood, MD)
You made a most difficult time in our lives so much easier. Everyone made us feel as if we were the only people you were assisting. That is a truly remarkable ability.
— Phyllis Franklin (Baltimore, MD)
Our experience with Sol Levinson & Bros. was one of the best we have ever had with any firm - commercial, government, non-profit. The level of professionalism and responsiveness was outstanding. Most importantly, Levinson's genuine sprit of care and consideration for our family at the time of Devorah's death and funeral helped ease our grief and peace of mind. We very much appreciated the ease of doing business with you, the website capability, the seven day candles, the condolence acknowledgement notes, and the suggestion to place mementos in Devorah's casket (a heart wrenching but very meaningful ritual). Especially to be commended are Eliza Feller for assisting us in pre-funeral arrangements and those who helped us through the period of August 24-26, 2013.
Thank you for being with us as you have been with our family for many, many decades.
— Harold Freeman, Miriam & David Browning (Baltimore, MD)
Thank you so much for a most informative tour. Our students were delighted with their experience and appreciated the opportunity to learn more about Jewish funeral and mourning practices. As one of them wrote, "I found it to be extremely informative and I was provided with answers to many of my questions. The two funeral directors were fantastic, so warm and caring and very professional in their approach and their explanations." We are so fortunate in Baltimore. No wonder every rabbi who moves away always says that what s/he misses most is Levinson's.
— Judy Meltzer (Chizuk Amuno - Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning)
Words are insufficient to express the gratitude my family feels for the remarkable support we received from Sol Levinson & Bros. following the recent death of my brother. We did not know how to respond to his request to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery, however my son-in-law suggested that I contact Matt Levinson, who had experience with Arlington Burials, and gave us assurance that my brother's wishes would be fulfilled. Thanks to Sol Levinson & Bros., it was possible to honor my brother's request in a timely way, with our family present, that he be laid to rest with military honors, so moving and meaningful for all of us, in Chaplains Hill at Arlington National Cemetery.
— Rabbi Myron Geller (Gloucester, MA)
Every member of your staff was helpful, kind and courteous. Eliza was exceptional. She was compassionate, kind and efficient - just what we needed at such a difficult time. Your website is wonderful, especially the online video, which allowed our family in Australia and Israel to view the funeral.
— Howard L. Siegel, MD (Baltimore, MD)
We were amazed by your ability to handle the overflow crowd while tending to every one of our needs, and anticipating others with great compassion and professionalism. We are also so grateful for the videotaping service that was provided. Hundreds of people who couldn't get to the funeral were able to see it in real time. Incredible.
— Dr. Judah and Judith Minkove (Baltimore, MD)
Sol Levinson & Bros. did a wonderful job with sensitivity and grace. Your knowledge and expertise at a time when a family is unable to think and plan was very helpful. Much stress was taken from us due in large part to your knowledge, experience, and kindness.
— V. Walker (Lutherville, MD)
We want to express our sincere gratitude for the support, guidance and kindness you have shown to our family. You and the entire Levinson staff were not only professional and competent but also compassionate and caring every step of the way. Having the Levinson's in Baltimore is indeed a blessing to the community, serving families so well at such difficult times. Thank you again and we wish you and yours all the best.
— Janet Kurland (Baltimore, MD)
Your services are needed at the most vulnerable point in anyone's life. It is a time when emotions are raw and confusing and most of us aren't thinking logically. Your staff was not only empathetic, efficient and respectful, but also thoughtful. You permitted us to have a service that allowed us to honor our father in a way that seemed to have been unprecedented with your procedures. Eliza was available at every turn. Her calm demeanor allowed us time to think clearly and deal with the difficulties we were having within our family. We thank you for the effective methods you used in handling this most difficult time in our lives. We particularly want to thank Eliza for going beyond what was expected in her patience, kindness, efficiency and care. All of us were impressed. We were also comforted in knowing that our father was watched over for many days before the burial by the kind and gentle Dr. Shavrick, and we also appreciated the flexibility you afforded us in providing what we needed for the two different shiva locations. I can't say enough about the outstanding service you provide at times like these.
— Roslyn Belkin (Bel Air, MD)
There is nothing I would change from the moment we came to discuss the arrangements for our beautiful mom. You all have taken the word of professionalism to a new level. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all of the compassion shown to all of us. Everyone was wonderful - our drivers were fabulous, too!
— Debbie Shavitz (Baltimore, MD)
Obviously, given the circumstances, I wish that I had not had the sad duty to use your services. But, since necessity dictated otherwise, I want to assure you unreservedly that everyone connected with Sol Levinson who I met acted not only with exemplary professionalism, but also with great personal warmth. Although I have lived in the Cleveland area for almost 42 years, as one born and raised in Baltimore, you all re-confirmed my long-held view that there really is something very special and unmatched elsewhere about my old hometown.
— Leonard Miller (Aurora, OH)
We received the highest level of service from Ira, Matt, and everyone we had dealings with at Levinsons. You are not only very professional, but extremely compassionate. You helped us to get through a very difficult time in our lives. Thank you for caring and all that you did.
— Anonymous
Since our funeral had to be handled from another state, I was very appreciative of how your staff handled all of the details. It made what could have been a very stressful transition almost effortless. I want to thank Greg King in particular for his assistance.
— Mark Meister (Yellow Springs, OH)
I wish to take this opportunity to express my deep appreciation to the Sol Levinson Funeral Home for the excellent service provided at all levels. Most importantly, Scott Cuttler was a caring, knowledgeable individual that well represented your fine organization.
— Mark M. Glass (Towson, MD)
Thank you so much!! No wonder generations of Baltimoreans trust their loved ones to you. I am only sorry that you don't have a branch here in Hollywood, FL, which is where our final resting place will be.
— Susan Luskin (Hollywood, FL)
I appreciated the professionalism of all those we dealt with at Levinsons, and want to especially note the services of Steve, our driver to and from Beth David Cemetery (Elmont, Long Island). I also greatly appreciated your engaging Rabbi Solomon to officiate at the funeral. He went above and beyond in making a difficult time easier to deal with.
— Roslyn Samuelson
I just want to thank you for providing an incredibly warm and caring atmosphere during an extremely difficult time. I was impressed with each and every detail, interaction, etc. From the moment I walked in and was greeted by one of the funeral directors, she attended to our needs and was kind and sensitive. I appreciated the availability of another funeral director who later answered my questions about burial rituals, and demonstrated a true sensitivity to different levels of religious customs. We even appreciated the big bowl of colorful candy in the family room that for some reason "hit the spot" for so many of us who needed something in that moment. You had packs of tissues that were perfectly placed, neat and clean rooms, and an overall top notch staff that clearly has everything running like a well-oiled machine. That was a very difficult day for me - one that I've been dreading forever. But your funeral home truly helped make the experience more manageable. You helped get us through it, with a quiet presence and a helping hand. Thank you.
— Rachel Ravin
I want to take this opportunity to thank the Levinson family for all you do for our community. Sol Levinson & Bros. is truly an outstanding company that serves the entire Jewish community with dignity and compassion. Baltimoreans can be very proud that we have one of the finest Jewish funeral services and funeral homes in America and in fact the entire world. Your reputation speaks for itself and I personally know of your chesed and good deeds.
— Eli W. Schlossberg, Executive Trustee, Ahavas Yisrael Charity Fund (Baltimore, MD)
We become so used to what is around us that unless we have the occasion to attend a funeral in another city, we don't appreciate what we have. The Levinson family has truly been a community mainstay. Our community is lucky to have this family-run institution.
— Edna Crystal (Pikesville, MD)
After 120 years in business, Fields is closing. I imagine that when it opened in 1892, some rabbi came into the store, put up the mezuzah and said to the owner, "You should have mazal with this new business. May it, like you, last 120 healthy years."
And now, Fields' time is up.
All of us who have lived here for 20 or 30 years or more have seen plenty of businesses come and go. But, if you were to choose one business that you can't imagine ever closing, which one would it be?
My money would be on Sol Levinsons, and not just because people will always be dying. Just think about it. Unlike Washington, Philadelphia or NYC, Baltimore has only one Jewish funeral home. And yet, even though they have a monopoly, they offer truly excellent service. How do I know this? From both personal experience, as well as many conversations with congregants, it is clear to me that this is a business that is run with intelligence and compassion.
When my dad, of blessed memory, died, his funeral was held in a funeral home in another major city. It was a Sunday morning, and the container of kippot in the chapel entrance was empty. It took me 10 minutes to find someone who worked for the place to refill that container. And here in Baltimore, at Levinsons, I have never attended a funeral where there were fewer than eight people "at your service". And at a large funeral, like that of Barbara Leibowitz Lichter (what a marvelous human being she was!) last Sunday, there were at least ten people working the parking lot, assisting with seating, etc.
These Levinson folks are excellent. They deserve the reputation that they enjoy.
— Rabbi Paul Schneider (Baltimore, MD)
Your funeral home has buried 3 generations of my family and my husband's family. I chose your funeral services because of my past experience with the professionalism with which you cared for them. I was not disappointed in my expectations. Mike Kruger took care of everything and there was nothing that was left out. No detail either large or small was missed. I was grateful for all of the staff from Mike to the drivers of the limousines and hearse, to anyone answering the phones.
— Marie Schwartz (Fairfield, PA)
Each member of your organization was extremely kind, gracious and available.
Thank you for being so reputable in the Jewish community - and charitable.
— Rona Kogan (Baltimore, MD)
I can’t thank you enough for all of your warm and sincere help with my mom’s funeral. Next to the day you lose your loved one, the day of the funeral is the next hardest in one’s life. Sol Levinson does a perfect job of taking care of the family during this sad time. Every single person was kind and does a wonderful job guiding us through this difficult time. Many of my friends from Hagerstown had never been to a Jewish funeral in Baltimore. They commented on your beautiful place and the genuine and excellent service you all provided. Also, the idea of loved ones being able to witness the service live is such a mitzvah. My mom had extremely close family from Israel, Vermont, New Hampshire, California and New York, and all watched the funeral live. When I got home that night, everyone left a phone message about what a beautiful and moving service. Thanks again for everything.
— Debbie Cress (Hagerstown, MD)
You all were phenomenal. I really appreciated all of the wonderful service I received from you. From my first contact with your company, until now, I have received top notch service. Thank you so much.
— Miriam Cohen (Rockville, MD)
There are no words to express my gratitude. When my husband died, I didn’t know the name of a Jewish undertaker in West Palm Beach. Then the hospital started pressuring me to call one to remove the body. My niece in Baltimore called Sol Levinson and Greg called me and told me to go home - he took care of everything. When the plots at Baltimore Hebrew Cemetery were found to be unusable, you came to my aid once again by helping me find alternative plots. I was a member of Liberty Jewish Center when I lived in Baltimore and Rabbi Max (now deceased) was my rabbi. Again, you came up with a rabbi I felt I have known all my life. The limo drivers were excellent.
— Julia F. Beker (West Palm Beach, FL)
This was a very stressful time for our family, but with the aid of the entire staff at Sol Levinson & Bros., Inc., we were organized and guided and well-advised. There were no surprises, no glitches - everything was anticipated and executed in a polished and dignified fashion. Special thanks to Eliza Feller - wise, tactful, capable, kind - beyond her years in her ability to handle these serious matters.
— Ilene Brave (Baltimore, MD)
There is absolutely nothing that could have been improved upon for the funeral of my husband. Eliza Feller was both kind and efficient and I felt completely confident that all would be taken care of as it should be, and it was. Everyone I spoke to from the first call to the gentleman who picked up the chairs was professional and did their job in a manner that was exceptional. There is really nothing that could be improved upon. I have worked with funeral homes in Montgomery County over the years, for others, and I know how outstanding Levinson’s care is in every way. I am grateful that you have not sold and continue to give the care that my great-grandparents, grandparents, and parents received. Thank you.
— Ann W. Joseloff (Silver Spring, MD)
Mere words cannot adequately express our heartfelt thanks for the incredibly gracious support extended to our family by all of the Levinson family on the passing of our beloved Jeanette. At a most difficult time, you made every step along the way so easy and pleasant for us. Your kindness and thoughtfulness in guiding us through the process deeply touches us. We so appreciate your contribution to the Marjorie Levinson Memorial Fund of Sinai Hospital in our mom’s memory. It is comforting to know that her legacy of caring for others will continue through your meaningful donation.
Thank you so much for your compassion and support. It means more than words can say.
— Marcie Goodman and Family (Baltimore, MD)
I just wanted to let you know how seamless and professional all was handled. Having you, Matt, your dad, and your entire team at this difficult time was reassuring. It enabled us to focus on our family and our grieving and not the details. Thanks for being there for us, your support, and all you do. All my best,
— Jimmy Berg (Owings Mills, MD)
I can’t even begin to tell you how impressed I am with Levinson’s funeral services. I have never experienced such a professional operation. You simply go beyond anything I have ever experienced. You made us feel truly cared for, like family. You must be very proud of your success, as you should be. I love seeing a family work in such harmony. To top everything, I received notice of your kind contribution to Marjorie’s Memorial Fund in Joel’s memory. Thank you so very much for all your services and contribution. You made a very sad day less stressful.
— Carole Walderman (Clarksville, MD)
I can’t think of anything you could have done better. This is the first time I have had to work with you (always other, older family members were in charge). Polite, kind, and dignified, Eliza and all others gave me just the right degree of direction. And Eliza helped me locate our remaining family members in Baltimore. Thank you so much!
— Linda Fader (Los Angeles, CA)
We are in receipt of your kind letter of March 30th with regard to the services you rendered on behalf of our cousin.
From the setting up of the irrevocable trust, which was done very timely when we were trying to put things in order so as to be able to apply for Medicaid, through the final service, you handled everything in the most professional manner anyone could have hoped for. With your help, and the Rabbi’s, we were able to overcome finding out one hour before the service that the plot designated for burial next to her husband was not usable. Your people were so helpful during that crisis and fortunately we were able to proceed.
The streaming of the service to us back in New York was something we never could have anticipated, and meant so much to us. We were her closest relatives, but given the number of people we are caring for here, we could not leave. Being able to see the service was almost like being there physically and made all the difference.
At the risk of not mentioning someone who helped us, which would be inadvertent, the following people were there for us when we needed them to be: Matt, Greg and Eliza. Finally, we are grateful for the contribution made to the Marjorie Levinson Memorial Fund of Sinai Hospital of Baltimore. We know how much she would have appreciated that. Our best to all of you.
— Harvey and Pam Abrams (Bardonia, NY)
Everyone I had dealt with at your establishment lived up to our outstanding reputation. Words could never express how grateful I am, and relieved of the burden of this enormous tragedy in my life that I had to face. You handled all aspects of the funeral from beginning to end with consideration and professionalism. Thank you so very much.
— Irvin Willen (Finksburg, MD)
You took care of everything very professionally. Thank heaven I haven’t needed many of your special services, but it was good to know you were there if needed.
— Janet Abramowitz (Baltimore, MD)
Levinson’s lives up to its reputation. Michael Kruger was so kind and caring while guiding me through this process. Greg King was also helpful. I can suggest nothing in the way of improving what was perfect.
— Susan Keller Cohen (Baltimore, MD)
I didn’t want my mother to pre-pay her burial expenses 10 years ago but now I’m glad that she did. It only took one call on that terrible Sunday night for you to take care of everything. Scott was so helpful and responsive. I’m very glad that all of my mother’s wishes were accommodated and her burial took place as she wanted it. Thank you so much for being there for us.
— Harriet Hardy (Catonsville, MD)
Many thanks to Scott, who helped in assisting us while we were still in Florida awaiting my father’s death. As well, he made things very easy for my brother and I upon arriving back to Baltimore to arrange the funeral here. Special thanks to our limo driver, Todd Franklin. He was so kind anyway, but when he recognized me from school, he was even more wonderful and supportive on what was, to date, just the worst day of our lives.
— Randi Dlin (Reisterstown, MD)
I felt that Scott and Matt provided thorough, professional and compassionate service to me and my family. Thank you. We had anticipated that perhaps 200 people would attend my husband’s funeral. Over 600 people came and your staff handled this very well. The limo driver and the gentlemen who delivered and picked up the chairs, prayer books, etc., were also helpful, prompt and professional.
— Toni Greenberg (Reisterstown, MD)
There is an adage that suggests that there is always room for improvement. Following the funeral service, burial, and shiva for my husband, I honestly can’t think of anything Sol Levinson needs to improve! Your entire staff was professional, compassionate, knowledgeable, warm and pleasant. They had answers to our questions before we knew we had the questions. As you are well aware, the death of a beloved family member leaves the family emotionally drained. Your staff, led in this case by Scott Cuttler, took away our uncertainty and handled all the necessary details in a manner in which all of you should be very proud. Our family wants you to know that all your efforts were very much appreciated.
— Marian Shuman (Baltimore, MD)
Thank you for your excellent service at the time of our mother’s death. Many people also have listened to the audio recording of the funeral service. We greatly appreciated your compassion, attention to detail and your help through this process.
— Diana G. (Reisterstown, MD)
On behalf of our entire family we would like to extend our appreciation to Sol Levinson & Bros., Inc. for their services during this very sad time in our lives. We are very grateful that my mother and father-in-law had the foresight to plan ahead for their funerals. The staff at Sol Levinson could not have been nicer to work with and we really appreciated the extra effort made to coordinate Leonard’s funeral with the Veterans Cemetery. Everyone was a pleasure to work with during this emotionally stressful time.
— Steven & Barbara Tapper (Reisterstown, MD)
I want to thank you for your dignified manner in helping me and my family through a difficult time. Your coordination with Beth Israel Cemetery helped to make the funeral go smoothly and without any problems. It was comforting to have someone from Levinson’s in New Jersey when we arrived.
— Eena Feld (Pikesville, MD)