– Oldest Jewish person
– Longest living Jewish individual.
Who: Pearl Louise Berg
Pearl Louise Berg, the ninth oldest person in the world and the third oldest in the United States, has sadly passed away at the age of 114 in Los Angeles. Pearl, an American Jewish woman of Eastern European descent, was not only known for her impressive longevity but also for her significant contributions to her community.
Why it matters:
The life of Pearl Louise Berg, spanning over a century, holds great importance as it tells a story of dedication, history, and the deep roots of Jewish presence and advocacy in America. Her existence was intertwined with significant events such as the Great Depression and the formation of the State of Israel, reflecting the robust and vibrant Jewish experience in the 20th century.
Life and legacy:
Born in Evansville, Indiana in 1909, Pearl Berg moved to Los Angeles at the young age of 19. It was there that she met her husband, Mark Berg, and became an integral part of the Temple Israel of Hollywood. She remained an active and beloved member of the community for more than 85 years. Pearl’s support for the State of Israel since its founding is widely celebrated. Her son recounts a tale of her family’s involvement in sending crucial supplies, cleverly disguised as ‘agricultural equipment,’ to the young state.
A Friend of Israel:
Pearl Berg’s commitment to the development of Israel was evident through her and her husband’s actions in supporting the nascent Israeli state during its times of need. This aspect of her life exemplifies the deep connection many American Jews felt with Israel and highlights their role in aiding the growth of a fellow Jewish homeland.
Her wit and will:
Even in her advanced years, Pearl Berg maintained her sense of humor and frankness about life. When Rabbi John L. Rosove once wished her longevity “to 120!,” she humorously but earnestly declined, saying, “Please God, ‘NO!'”
The family joy:
Pearl Berg leaves behind a loving family consisting of two sons and one grandchild. They will forever cherish and honor the memory of a matriarch who not only witnessed history but actively participated in it with resilience and an unshakable spirit.
Berg’s significance:
As the Jewish world bids farewell to one of its eldest members, Pearl Louise Berg’s life becomes a tapestry of American Jewish heritage, resilience in the face of adversity, and a personal connection to the narrative of Israel’s establishment and continuation.
In Memoriam: Pearl Louise Berg
Pearl’s journey of 114 years will forever serve as a beacon of endurance for Jewish life throughout modern history. She is poignantly remembered for her wisdom, deep affinity for her community and culture, and as a testament to the eternal flame of the Jewish spirit.
This story was first published on jpost.com.
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1. World’s Oldest Jewish Individual Dies at
2. World’s Oldest Jewish Individual Passes Away.
