Jacob Pearlstein
Key Catalog Showroom Founder
Augusta, GA – Jacob “Jay” Pearlstein, 97, went peacefully into rest on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at his home. Jay was preceded in death by his lifelong companion and the love of his life Agnes C. Pearlstein.
A lifelong resident of Augusta, Jay was born April 1917 to the late Annie and Abraham Pearlstein. Graduating Valedictorian from Richmond Academy at the age of 16, Jay could not afford to go to college, but that did not stop him from becoming a very successful businessman. Jay loved to sing and was a member of the Temple Choir at Congregation Children of Israel for many years. His deep baritone voice made him a very in demand singer at weddings, which he did many.
In 1941, Jay joined the army and served as 2nd Lieutenant with the 4th Infantry Division based in Augusta. He landed by ship on Utah Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Cited for heroic action, Jay received the Bronze Star, the Oak Leaf Cluster, The Presidential Unit Citation, the Combat Infantry Badge and the American Defense Ribbon. When the war was over, Jay served on Court Marshall trials held by the Judge Advocates Court for men who tried to desert. Jay was honorably discharged December 1945.
In 1956, Jay opened what was later known to be Key Catalog Showroom. In April 1981, he was featured on the cover of Catalog Showroom Magazine with an article entitled, “How to Surpass Competition”. Leaving behind over 300 employees and nine successful showrooms in South Carolina and Georgia, he retired in 1984.
In his retirement Jay remained active by getting his real estate license from Augusta State University. He managed commercial real estate on Washington Road and investments for family and friends.
Jay was a member of Congregation Children of Israel and Adas Yeshurun Synagogue. He loved the Lord with all his heart and lived by His teachings. A true southern gentleman, Jay leaves a legacy of honor, kindness, humility, hard work, and much love.
Jay is survived by his daughter, Karen P. Thomason (David), and three grandchildren, Tiffany Woods (Jeff), Lindsey Thomason, and Michael Thomason.
A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2015 at 2:00 PM at Westover Memorial Park with Rabbi David Sirull officiating.
Family will receive friends at the Thomason home after the funeral.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Temple Choir at Congregation Children of Israel, 3005 Walton Way Ext., Augusta, GA 30909.
Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com