James Martin Kaplan
May 29, 1930 - December 14, 2025

JAMES MARTIN KAPLAN: Born in McKeesport on May 29, 1930, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025 at the age of 95 years, AKA 1146 months. He loved and was loved by his family; his wife Marcia and children Judy (Marc), Mark (Michael), and Rosalie, and grandchildren Anya and Jacob. He also loved and was loved by his many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Jim met his beloved wife Marcia at Carnegie Tech in the music department. Through their mutual interest in music and education, a wonderful life blossomed together. The two wed on August 7, 1955, and shared over seventy years of marriage, a blessing beyond words. 

Jim was known for this love of all things music. Following his graduation in 1954, he began his tenure as band director at Rochester High School. After seeing the need for expanded music education in schools, he and his partner Jim Botti opened a small private lesson studio, Beaver Valley Music, in 1958. Both Jims wanted personalized music education for children of all ages and in 1962, it became a full-time business known as Brighton Music Center. As their reputation grew, they began a rental program, bringing instruments to thousands of students in hundreds of districts that continues to this day. Their desire to provide music education to students who wouldn't have otherwise been able to experience it reached beyond anyone's imagination. After retiring from Brighton Music, he continued teaching privately for many years and volunteered with Marcia in the Pittsburgh Public Schools' Music Program. He passed on his passion for music to his children and grandchildren, who are all involved in music and the arts.

Jim was very active in his local community and loved tennis, wallyball at the Y and breakfast at Bricker's with his fellow band directors. He was a lifelong Pittsburgh sports fan and enjoyed countless summers on LBI with all the family. Wherever they went, Jim and Marcia would run into someone they knew. If they didn't know you, it wouldn't be long before Jim would initiate a conversation inquiring what instrument you played in high school and telling you he knew your band director!

The family is incredibly grateful for the care, attention, and comfort given to Jim by his many wonderful healthcare professionals and extraordinary caregivers. Special thanks to Dr. Emily Burns, and the team of Mirian, Lorenzo, Keauna, Clarnice, Krystle and Jordan. Additionally, many thanks to the kind and generous staff of The Bristol Cooperative. 

Services at Temple Sinai, 5505 Forbes Avenue, Squirrel Hill on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 1 PM. Visitation one hour prior to service (12 Noon - 1 PM). Interment Temple Sinai Memorial Park, Plum Boro. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Jim's memory to the Botti-Kaplan Scholarship Fund sponsored by the Beaver County Foundation. It awards a $1000 scholarship to a college-bound high school senior who participated in their high school instrumental music program and will be pursuing a degree in music education. Please make a donation HEREor send a check to Beaver County Foundation, P.O. Box 569, Beaver, PA 15009 with Botti-Kaplan Scholarship in the memo line. Contributions may also be made to Mollie's Meals: Mollie's Meals Home Delivery

Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. www.schugar.com

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We are so sorry for your loss. May his memory be a blessing.

By The Butcher-Galanter Family - December 28, 2025

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We are so sorry for your loss. Please know that our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

By The Butcher/Galanter Family - December 28, 2025

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Jim was one of the kindest people I ever knew. He and his wonderful wife and children treated me like family during my early years of teaching. Later, I remember he was the first to call me when my wife was battling cancer and offer his support. He touched so many lives with his sincere care and concern. He made the world a better place and left a legacy of compassion and love for others. I consider myself fortunate to have known him. He made the world a better place.

By Jerry Dattilo - December 18, 2025

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Sympathy to the family. Jim was very helpful when I was teaching.

By Corky Whitacre - December 17, 2025

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So very sorry for your loss. I have pleasant memories when we teamed up being greeters Shabbat Servies at Temple Sinai. May his memory be a blessing.

By Debbie Haber - December 17, 2025

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Dearest Kaplans I have so many fond memories of our time together singing in the Temple Sinai Intergenerational choir. Jim always had a hug and a smile for me. I’m sending you all love and hugs. May his memory be a blessing.

By Joan Stein - December 17, 2025

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Mr. Kaplan’s legacy is unmatched…I will miss him dearly, but knowing him was one of my greatest privileges ❤️.

By Valerie Shannon - December 17, 2025

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Dearest Kaplans I have so many fond memories of our time together singing in the Temple Sinai Intergenerational choir. Jim always had a hug and a smile for me. I’m sending you all love and hugs. May his memory be a blessing.

By Joan Stein - December 16, 2025

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My dearest Kaplan Family-Sending you all my loving thoughts.Mr.Kaplan was truly one of the caring and gentle souls that I met on this Earth.I will never forget how he and your Mom welcomed me into their home and hearts.Please know that his kindness will forever live in my soul.I cherish that time in my life when all of you were there for me.Love is forever and always, Kelly💚

By Kelly Doylebucci - December 16, 2025

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Please accept our deepest sympathies. May Jim's memory be a blessing.

By The Yoffee Family - December 16, 2025

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