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Buff Brazy Given

September 5, 1925 - July 9, 2023

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Buff loved life, and life loved her back.

Buff Brazy Given, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Los Angeles, California, on July 9, 2023. She was born in Chicago, Illinois, on September 5, 1925. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bertram Given;  parents, Nicolas and Dorothy Brazy; and brothers, Robert and Jacques Brazy.

As a young adult, Buff and her then-husband, Milton Gotlib, relocated their family to Los Angeles. Buff was a woman of many talents and accomplishments. Buff earned a Master’s in architecture from UCLA. She authored two novels: “A Small Flirtation” and “Simon’s Story,” at ages 75 and 80, respectively. Buff left a positive impact on the lives of others through charitable organizations, most notably Hebrew Union College and American Jewish Committee.

Buff leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. She is survived by her children: Steven (Donna) Gotlib, Jillian Gotlib, and Robin Brazy; grandchildren: Helen Gotlib (Dylan Stryzinski), Dorothy Gotlib (Jacob Kurlander), Risa Gotlib (Eric Giraldi), Jocelyn Gotlib (Jeff Gladchun), Brooke Voigt (Kristen Ozuna), and Logan Hopper.

Simon and Violet Kurlander, Buff’s great-grandchildren, will remember her fondly.

Bert’s family also mourns Buff’s passing. She will be missed by Bert’s children: Judy (Michael) Israel, Bob (Suzi) Given, and John Given (Daphne Dennis), along with grandchildren Sarah Smirin, Daniel Smith, Matthew Smith, Geoffrey Given, Andrew Given, and Samantha Given-Dennis; and great-grandchildren: Kelsey Inskeep, Riley Given, Zack and Eli Smirin, Carlie and Harper Given, Aylet and Ezra Smith whom Buff loved dearly and claimed as her own.

Olinda Morales held a very special place in Buff’s life. She was a friend, trusted companion, and collaborator of their bi-lingual cookbook. Buff referred to Olinda as “My Everything.” Buff will also be lovingly remembered by Olinda’s daughters, Gloria and Jennifer Acosta, and Olinda’s sister Ruth Morales.

Funeral services will be held on July 16 at 2:00 PM at Hillside Memorial Park, 6001 W. Centinela Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90045. In place of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hebrew Union College, American Jewish Committee, or Food Forward.