Norfolk – Howard Irving Horwitz passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, with his family by his side. He was 78 years old.
Howard was born and grew up in Richmond, Va., the son of Seymour and Esther Fishman Horwitz, of blessed memory. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School and the University of Virginia. Following graduation, he taught high school English in what was then Nansemond County, which brought him to the Tidewater area. There he met the love of his life, Susan, his wife of 47 years. He also became active in the synagogue in Suffolk, Agudath Achim, and later in Congregation Beth El in Norfolk. Both Howard and Susan had long careers in the real estate business.
Howard’s true profession, however, was music. He started playing violin in the fourth grade and never stopped, finding many opportunities to play publicly in settings small and large. He joined the Virginia Beach Symphony Orchestra more than 30 years ago and played with the orchestra (now named Symphonicity) until last year.
Howard is survived by his wife Susan, son David, and daughter Kerri. He also is survived by his sister Sylvia (Dov Weitman), in-laws, cousins, and many friends who have loved and appreciated his kindness, sense of humor, and intelligence over the years.
Donations may be made to Symphonicity or United Jewish Federation of Tidewater.
Funeral services took place at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. in Norfolk. Burial followed at Forest Lawn Cemetery.