Gary Jaffe, former CEO of Booksource, died on December 12 at the age of 60.
Founded by his father, the late Sandy Jaffe, in 1974, Booksource was a major regional trade wholesaler for booksellers and then focused on classroom library books and curriculum materials. Last year, the company was sold to Mackin Educational Resouces.
Jaffe's obituary noted that "during his tenure, Booksource received numerous honors, including recognition among the 100 Largest Private Businesses in St. Louis, Family Business of the Year, Best Place to Work, #1 Coolest Offices, and the Great Game of Business All-Star Award. Gary himself was named a finalist for EY Entrepreneur of the Year. He treasured the opportunity to share company ownership with his brother Neil Jaffe and sister Donna Jaffe.
"Beyond accolades, Gary's true legacy was his commitment to his employees. He fostered a family-first culture, championed leadership development through the Emergent Leadership Program, and supported education through the Marcia Jaffe Scholarship and tuition reimbursement. He was deeply proud to have safeguarded all employee jobs and wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic and delighted in sending employees abroad on 'Sandy Vacations.' "
The family suggested that in Gary Jaffe's honor, donations be made to Junior Achievement of Greater St. Louis, Ready Readers, or a charity of the donor's choice.