Philanthropist, retired banker Richard Friedman dies at 81

RICHARD SAMUEL FRIEDMAN, a retired banker and philanthropist, passed away with his wife at his side in the early morning hours of July 7, 2025. He was 81.

RICHARD FRIEDMAN

A native of Des Moines, Iowa, he graduated from Harvard University and later served during the Vietnam War as a lieutenant in the U.S. infantry. 

Friedman was a resident of New Orleans for over 50 years and was an enthusiastic tennis player, an active member of the New Orleans Lawn Tennis Club.and never missed an opportunity for a challenging game of tennis. He was a member of the Rotary Club and a proud member and regular attendee at the Uptown Jewish Community Center.

An active member of Touro Synagogue, Friedman was a regular contributor to its Shabbat Morning Weekly Torah Study and freely gave his time, talent and tremendous resources to numerous organizations throughout the Greater New Orleans Jewish community and also bequeathed numerous charitable organizations in the Greater New Orleans community at large..

His generosity was only exceeded by his sense of humor and appreciation of the special humanity of everyone who came into his life. He was noted for his infectious smile and gave compliments to everyone who crossed his path. He also appreciated music and had a special fondness for his many canine friends.

Along with his wife, with whom he was inseparable, Friedman received the Jewish Endowment Foundation of Louisiana’s highest honor, the Tzedakah Award, in 2024.

He was preceded in death by his precious son, Brian Roussel Friedman in 2021.

He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Linda Norman Friedman; his sister, Margo Friedman; and his brother- and sister-in-law, Maurice Frank Norman (Sandra).  

Funeral Services were held in the main sanctuary of Touro Synagogue  4238 St. Charles Avenue, on Thursday, July 10, 2025. Visitation was held from 10:30 till shortly before the start of the service in the Forgotson Chapel.  A graveside service and interment followed at Hebrew Rest Cemetery No. 3, 2101 Pelopidas St. 

In lieu of flowers, and to honor his commitment to philanthropy, please consider making a donation to the charity of your choice.

Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemetery is handling arrangements.