Howard “Sonny” Tannanbaum passed away on January 10, 2026.

Born April 16, 1941 to Edith (nee Matt) and Charles Tannanbaum, Howard grew up in West Philadelphia. Known lovingly as Sonny to friends and family, he was the owner of a successful family business that was over 100 years old, Shapiro Monuments. Respected and liked by customers and colleagues, he was a natural at making people feel better during one of the hardest times in their lives.Sonny had a deep love for all animals that began early in his childhood. He had a beloved dog during every phase of his life.

 He lived for his dogs and they brought him much joy and happiness. Eventually, cats came along too, and there was always a store cat living in Shapiro Monuments. He was also fascinated with monkeys, especially gorillas; he described them as magnificent.

Sonny was best known for his brilliant and unique sense of humor, making others laugh wherever he went; his second career could have been as a comedian.

Sonny enjoyed playing poker and blackjack, both of which he had a knack for. He also took great pleasure in owning and driving his BMW, and he had several throughout his life. Also an avid movie watcher and player of word games, his daughter Amanda fondly remembers them watching and discussing movies together, and solving crossword puzzles and the daily Cryptogram in the Philadelphia Inquirer together.

Sonny is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years June (Shapiro), his adored daughter Amanda Abramson (Scott), and his dear grandchild Nat. Also a sister, Patricia Newman, brother-in-law Mark Shapiro (Lynne) and nephews Charles and Andrew Newman. Sonny’s love of animals and his sense of humor live on in Amanda and Nat.

His passing leaves a hole in many people’s lives and he will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Contributions in Sonny’s memory may be made to:

Alley Cat Allies or to Associated Humane Societies or to PETA