Heritage Florida Jewish News - Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice

Maurice “Mo” Shams of Maitland, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2014, at Florida Hospital – Orlando. He was 78 years old. Mo was born in Pensacola on May 17, 1936, to the late Sidney and Rachel Shams. A graduate of Pensacola High School, he received his BA from the University of Florida and JD from UF Law School and his master’s in taxation from NYU Law School. He served as a communications officer in the FL Air National Guard.

Mo married his college sweetheart, Bonnie Harris, in 1962 and they moved to Orlando to start their family. In 1969, the family settled in Maitland where they have resided for 45 years. Mo was a noted attorney in Orlando and, according to many, their “best friend.” Mo worked tirelessly for all the residents of Maitland and was proud to call Maitland his home.

A past president of Congregation Ohev Shalom, the family has been members of CRJ for the past 10 years.

In addition to Bonnie, Mo is survived by his sons Sid (Cristina) Shams, Randy Shams, and Brian (Heather) Shams; daughter Lainie Shams; four grandchildren; and Mia Stephens and sister, Esta Shams Shaab.

Funeral services were held at Congregation of Reform Judaism with Cantor Jacqueline Rawiszer and Rabbi Moshe Elbaz of Temple Israel of Valdosta officiating. Burial followed at the CRJ Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Florida Hospital Foundation, 2904 N Orange Ave, Orlando 32804 or JCC Pre-School, 851 N Maitland Ave, Maitland 32751. Arrangements entrusted to Beth Shalom Memorial Chapel, 640 Lee Road, Orlando