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Lawrence “Larry” LeVian, the longtime chair of Le Vian Corp. and avid philanthropist, died on Jan. 23 of complications from Parkinson’s disease. He was 73.
LeVian was the eldest son of Abdulrahim LeVian, who founded the U.S. branch of the family business in 1950. Following Abdulrahim’s death in 2000, Lawrence became chair of Le Vian Corp., and helped grow the company into a powerhouse known for its Red Carpet Revues in Las Vegas and promotion of Chocolate Diamonds.
His life was forever altered when he was the victim of a robbery, nephew Jonathan tells JCK.
“The trauma changed his life path to become selfless and a giver and turned him into one of the most generous philanthropists of the jewelry industry in our times,” Jonathan says. “He led a life of resilience and gratitude.”
As Le Vian chair, Larry decreed that the company donate 10% to 20% of its pretax profits to charity every year before distributing any dividends.
“Even in the depths of his suffering his eyes smiled with a shower of love,” Jonathan says.
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On LinkedIn, Le Vian CEO Eddie LeVian paid tribute to his elder brother, particularly his passion for charity: “He encouraged others in doing good with his compelling writings. He mentored me from a young age with his values of faith, resilience, hard work, integrity and philanthropy and compassion. He showed me the love of natural color gems and diamonds and beautiful handmade fine jewelry by having me travel on his trips to the mines and the stores. He fought valiantly to his last breath and never complained about his own medical situation.”
Larry is survived by his wife, Angela; four children; brothers Eddie and Moossa, and sisters Liza and Suzy, all of whom work in the family’s jewelry business; 22 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
Those who want to honor his memory are urged to make donations to the Great Neck Kosher Food Pantry.
Photos courtesy of Le Vian Corp.
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