Harriet E.G. Margolis, a prominent former member of the Philadelphia Division of the Women’s American Cancer Society, passed away in May, 2018 at the age of 80. She had become well known for her support of charitable causes in the City of Philadelphia. She raised money for a number of local cultural and civic organizations, including the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Philadelphia Orchestra Committee, and the Philadelphia Opera.
Born in the community of Bryn Mawr in 1937, she attended school in Pennsylvania and attended the Catholic educational institution, St. Joseph’s University. In 1964, she wed the late Sheldon B. Margolis, a graduate of the Philadelphia Military College and the University of Pennsylvania. Together the couple founded Margolis Wines & Spirits, Inc. later that year. The company managed by Mr. Margolis eventually became one of the largest wholesalers of wines and spirits in Pennsylvania. The couple resided for many years in Philadelphia, where they both became actively involved in supporting a variety of civic organizations.
The couple sold their successful business in 1999. Mrs. Margolis spent considerable time helping raise funds for civic causes in the City of Philadelphia. She also worked to raise a quarter of a million dollars to refurbish a mural in Vatican City. She volunteered on behalf of the Women’s American Cancer Society, both as a fundraiser and by helping to transport patients to cancer treatments.
Her activities also included serving in garden clubs. She regularly attended the annual Philadelphia Flower Show. She served on Villanova Garden Club.
The Academy of Notre Dame de Namur in Villanova asked her to sit on their board. She also served as a longtime member of the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, a civic affairs organization active in a variety of international causes.
Sheldon Margolis died last year. Harriet E.G. Margolis, who had battled cancer, passed away while in Florida. Several children survive the couple.
