Ralph Lauren’s brother Leonard dead at 93: Tributes paid to ‘dapper and elegant’ older sibling of fashion icon

The older brother of iconic fashion designer Ralph Lauren has died aged 93.

Leonard Lauren, known as Lenny, passed away at his condo in Palm Beach, Florida on Saturday, sources told TMZ.

A memo circulated to residents in his building called Lenny a ‘beloved fixture in the community whose presence touched nearly everyone.’

He was described as ‘dapper, elegant, and impeccably attired – a man with a kind word for all, a prodigious memory, and a gift for storytelling.’

Neighbors said his passing leaves the building and community ‘diminished’ and said he ‘was the rare type of individual who rose to the top of his game and left a lasting impact on everyone he met.’

Leonard was a former Vice President of Ralph Lauren and had also served on boards including the National Humane Society and Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.

He split his time between Palm Beach, Westchester, NY and the Hamptons. 

His funeral will take place Tuesday in New York City.

Lauren is survived by his children Beth Lauren and her husband Michael Lengel, and Susan Faust and her husband Phillip Faust, along with two grandchildren, Taylor and Brandon Faust, per WWD. 

He is also survived by his two brothers, Ralph, 85, and Jerry, 90. His older sister Thelma predeceased him. Lauren’s wife, Rene, also predeceased him in 2009. 

Philanthropist, author and advocate Jean Shafiroff posted on Instagram on Monday: ‘Lenny Lauren was a kind and caring man — and always a true gentleman. He was the beloved older brother [of] @ralphlauren. I had the highest respect for him. 

‘I send my condolences to his wonderful family. Palm Beach will not be the same without Lenny Lauren.’