Lawrence “Laurie” Jaffee, one of South Africa’s most prominent owners and influential racing administrators, died on March 27 at Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa, after a brief battle with cancer. He was 85.

Jaffee became a Thoroughbred owner in 1959 and purchased horses worldwide. He was a former chairman and a life vice president of the Johannesburg Turf Club and the Transvaal Racing Clubs. He also was former head executive steward of the Jockey Club of South Africa.

Horses raced by Jaffee, or in partnership, include 1990 South African Horse of the Year Ilustrador, two-time champion Bush Telegraph, and ’92 South African Horse of the Year  Empress Club (Arg). He also raced ’96 and ‘97 South African Horse of the Year London News and multiple group stakes winner Jallad, both of whom have gone of to successful careers at stud.

Jaffee also was a highly successful industrialist. His father founded Premier Milling, a company in South Africa featuring more than 20 brands of staple foods, and Laurie Jaffee was instrumental in the growth of the industry before pursing his own trading interests. 

Laurie Jaffee was buried at the Westpark Cemetery in Northcliff, Johannesburg.