Avrum I. 'Avie' Silver PhD

Dr. Avrum “Avie” I. Silver, 73, of Mt. Pleasant, SC passed away in the early morning of Tuesday, April 26, 2016, after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Avie was born in the French-Canadian city of Montreal on Friday, May 15, 1942, to the late Mrs. Bea Salit Silver and the late Mr. Nathan Silver, both European immigrants to Canada. Although once unflatteringly described as “special” by his 5th grade principal, Avie ignored the ad hoc diagnosis and went on to attend Sir George Williams University, graduate from Ohio University, and earn several degrees including a doctorate in psychology and eventually teach at the University of Georgia and The Citadel. While Avie’s interests were diverse, traveling with friends and family was a passion. He had more credit cards to earn free mileage than he had space in his wallet. When on vacation, he was known for his lack of a schedule, avoiding tourist traps, non-stop walking and making friends in any country that would let him in. He even learned Italian just to travel to Italy. He also enjoyed cheering for the Montreal Canadians, even though they can’t seem make the playoffs. Gardening and spending time with his grandchildren were also very special to him. While he wasn’t one to brag, everyone knew when he plucked a fresh lemon from his small garden. The impact Avie had on his family will continue to shape and influence it for many generations. His selfless caring and willingness to always put family first was an example for any parent. However, it was the smaller things that left the biggest impact, such as his inability to criticize, the calming advice he’d give in the midst of an urgent crisis, and always laughing at a joke, especially if it was at his expense. He will long be remembered by his family and friends. He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Gilberte Miron Silver, of Mt. Pleasant, SC; two sons, Michael Antony Silver, of Rome, Georgia, and Neil Robin Silver (Jonna Palmer), of Mt. Pleasant, SC; three grandchildren, Ashlyn, Hannah, and Austin, all of Rome, Georgia; and nieces, nephews, and loving friends. He was predeceased by his loving parents and his sister, Roslyn Boltuc, of Montreal, Canada. A Celebration of Avie will be held at McAlister-Smith Funeral Home, 1520 Rifle Range Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 on Wednesday, May 4, 2016 at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his name to Roper St. Francis Home Health, 1483 Tobias Gadson, Ste. 208A, Charleston, SC 29407. Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at www.McAlister-Smith.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to McALISTER-SMITH FUNERAL HOME, MT PLEASANT CHAPEL, 1520 RIFLE RANGE ROAD, MT PLEASANT, SC