Clifford Pearlman: A Celebration of Life at the Library
November 1, 2024 would have been Clifford's 80th birthday. Help us celebrate our beloved belated husband and father (affectionately known as Buzz and Pops in those respective roles) at one of his favorite places, the Free Library of Philadelphia.
Clifford passed away peacefully at Vitas Hospice in South Philadelphia on August 1 after suffering a hemorrhagic stroke. He was a social entrepreneur and changemaker, a creative innovator and leader, a passionate athlete and artist, and a loving father and husband. Read more about the Boy from Queens turned Philly Pops in this tribute written by his sons Zach and Justin.
Join us at the Parkway Central branch of the Free Library on Friday, November 1 at 4pm for light nibbles to start the weekend and remember Clifford sharing stories of the man who made us smile. The event will be in the Library's Skyline Room & Terrace.
Clifford was an avid reader and lover of the Library. Consider donating to The Free Library Fund in his memory or to another institution close to his heart:
Spotlight PA: An independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit newsroom committed to high-quality investigative and public-service journalism about Pennsylvania’s state government and urgent statewide issues. Clifford supported Spotlight PA’s mission to fill the void left by the decline of corporate-owned, for-profit media, believing fervently in the power of investigative journalism to inform and protect democracy. Spotlight PA has created the Clifford Pearlman Memorial Fund in his honor.
Lantern Theatre Company: This beloved institution produces plays that investigate and illuminate what is essential in the human spirit. Clifford was a devoted patron of the arts and tried not to miss a show each season, cherishing the small theatre’s ability to provoke big questions and reveal truths about the human condition.
The National Constitution Center: Located in Philadelphia, this museum and education center is dedicated to the United States Constitution. Clifford had a deep passion for constitutional law, legal issues, and public policy debates, finding joy in the rich discussions and learning opportunities offered by this venerable institution.
This is not an invite-only event. Feel free to share with others who knew Clifford or would like to remember him. We are only asking for RSVPs to have a sense of how many people to order food for. You won't need a ticket when you arrive — the Library is open to the public until 5. They have just asked us for an estimated number of attendees.
Feel free to write Lynn, Zach or Justin with any questions.
See you there.