Rabbi Maurice Lamm passed away last week at the age of 86. He was a beloved and respected writer, speaker and leader in the Jewish community. Rabbi Lamm is well known for his world-famous book, The Jewish Way in Death and Mourning, which has been the gold standard for Jewish mourners. His book provides the relatives of the deceased with both factual and comforting information to help them with every step of the burial and mourning period. Originally published in 1969, it has been updated to include many relevant new topics, such as autopsies, organ donation, mourning practices with stillborns, a woman’s right to say kaddish and others. Among his other notable books that have become household staples are The Jewish Way in Love and Marriage, Becoming a Jew and Living Torah in America.

Aside from being a world-renowned author, Rabbi Lamm was professor and chair of professional rabbinics at Yeshiva University’s Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary (RIETS). He also served on the faculty at Stern College for Women. For 13 years, Rabbi Lamm was the spiritual leader of Beth Jacob of Beverly Hills, one of the largest Orthodox synagogues in America. In addition, he held the position of field director of US military chaplains, and president of the National Institute for Jewish Hospice.

Rabbi Lamm’s personal impact was broadly felt. As his son, Rabbi David Lamm, wrote on Facebook: “He meant so much to so many.”

Rabbi Lamm is survived by his wife, Shirley; his son, Rabbi David Lamm; his daughter, Dodi Lamm; and his many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his daughter, Judith Young. His funeral was held this past Thursday in New York, with a burial in Israel.