Leaving a Legacy, Fueling a Lasting Impact

Sarasota is a cultural gem, renowned for its exceptional arts and cultural organizations. People from all over the globe are drawn to experience our vibrant arts scene, including philanthropists passionate about supporting and experiencing the richness of our cultural fabric. Warren and Margot Coville were a dynamic couple who had a deep passion for the arts in Sarasota -- especially theater, glass, and photographs -- as well as a strong commitment to Jewish causes. Together, they immersed themselves in giving back to our community, touching the lives of countless individuals through their generosity.  

Warren was born in Far Rockaway, New York and raised in Detroit, Michigan. Margot was born in Munich, Germany and came to the United States in 1946 to live with an uncle in Detroit. They met on a blind date and were married in April 1948, beginning a remarkable life together - Margot for 91 years and Warren for 97. They were united in marriage for an incredible 72 years.  

In the earlier chapters of their lives, the Coville’s were shaped by profound experiences. Margot was a Holocaust survivor who fled Nazi Germany as a child. At just 13 years old she courageously led 10 children across the border from France to Switzerland. She spent three years with family friends in Zurich and then immigrated to Detroit to live with an uncle. Meanwhile, Warren’s love for photography began at age 13, when he purchased his first camera with his Bar Mitzvah money. He volunteered for the military draft in 1943, serving in WWII as an instructor in aerial photography for the U.S. Air Force. After the war, he went on to become a successful businessman, opening ABC Photo in 1950 with his brother. ABC Photo was acquired by Guardian Photo and became one of the largest photo-processing companies in the world when Warren retired as CEO.  

Throughout their lives, Warren and Margot immersed themselves in philanthropy, giving generously through their Donor Advised Fund at Gulf Coast Community Foundation. In 2016, they established the Warren and Margot Coville Legacy Fund, a designated fund, created to support the many organizations they cared deeply about during their lifetimes. The fund provides annual support to Asolo Repertory Theatre where Warren served as a trailblazing board member. His visionary leadership helped secure a bright future for both the theatre and the FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training. “He was the driving force behind keeping the Conservatory alive and moving forward and bringing in new people to support the program,” said Greg Leaming, retired director of the Asolo Conservatory, in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. 

Passionate about the arts, the Coville’s were also ardent supporters of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Ringling College of Art and Design, Sarasota Orchestra, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and others. But their philanthropy extended far beyond the arts. Warren also served on the board of Jewish Family and Children’s Services where he and Margot created the Coville Counseling Center. Margot was actively involved with The Jewish Federation and Aviva Senior Living, demonstrating their passion for supporting Jewish causes that strengthen community well-being.  

The Coville’s left an indelible impact on the Gulf Coast region during their lifetimes and now through their legacy fund. Their giving spirits represent the type of philanthropists who fuel positive change and drive impact from the kindness of their hearts. Gulf Coast can help you support your favorite causes with trust and assurance that we will carry out your wishes with efficiency and care.