May 16th, 2022 by WCBC Radio

Lee Schwartz the long time owner/operator of The Book Center in Downtown Cumberland passed away Monday at the age of 70.  Lee’s parents Martin and Jean Schwartz moved to Cumberland from Baltimore in 1952 when he was just two- and after operating the Rex News Agency- they founded The Book Center in 1971 with Lee joining the family business and eventually taking over the day to day operations. The business expanded and several years ago began serving as an animal shelter cat adoption outpost.  Lee is survived by his wife of 44 years Gayle Griffith. The Adams Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.