In loving memory of Stuart Packer, 80, a longtime leader in Richmond, who passed away in Fredericksburg, Virginia, on November 21, 2021.
Stuart was born in Richmond to Dorothy and Bernard D. Packer, MD. He attended Thomas Jefferson High School, received his B.A. from Marquette University, and earned his M.B.A. from the College of William and Mary.
While serving in the U.S. Air Force as a radar aircraft tracking officer, he met his wife, Captain Patty Dirlam, who was serving as an Air Force nurse. Stuart achieved the rank of Captain. They eventually settled in Richmond, where they raised their son Jeff and daughter Amy.
Stuart retired from Phillip Morris USA where he worked for many years as a Principal Purchasing Planner. His career involved international negotiations and travel.
Stuart was generous with his time and expertise. He served as financial advisor to the Weinstein Jewish Community Center board, and as treasurer of Beth Ahabah Congregation, both in Richmond.
Stuart was also known for his philanthropy. He, along with his mother, Dorothy Packer, established and endowed the Bernard D. Packer Children’s Fund, administered by Richmond Jewish Foundation.
Stuart is remembered for his love and devotion to his family. He and his wife Patty were married for 53 years. He had a passion for fishing and boating with family and friends from the Chesapeake Bay to Alaska and traveling the world with his wife.
Stuart is survived by his wife, Patty; son Jeffrey Packer and wife Kathy of Renton, Washington; daughter Amy Lieberman and husband Rich of Fredericksburg; grandchildren Aaron Packer, Rachel Packer, and Jacob Lieberman; sisters Susan Farris and husband David of Richmond, Bobbie Greer and husband Jack of Shenandoah, and Beth Hirschfield of Portland, Oregon.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of his beloved wife Patty.
The photo from this In Memoriam is one many years ago of Stuart Packer, his wife, Patty, and daughter, Amy, and son, Jeffrey, is featured on the Weinstein JCC Wall of Honor. The statement notes: “While he never served as president of the Center, virtually no volunteer in the history of the institution did more to emphasize the importance of fiscal accountability and responsibility than Stuart Packer. He was treasurer and served on the budget committee for many years.”
