Rabbi Devorah Jacobson Honored at Retirement Luncheon for 23 Years of Service

LONGMEADOW — A retirement luncheon was held recently to honor Rabbi Devorah Jacobson, director of Spiritual Life at JGS Lifecare, for her 23 years of service and commitment to the JGS Lifecare community of residents, clients, staff, family members, and volunteers.

Jacobson, who was named one of America’s Most Inspiring Rabbis of 2016 by Jewish publication the Forward, has been an integral part of the JGS Lifecare family. More than 100 people gathered to express their gratitude and appreciation for her leadership and spiritual support that has enhanced so many lives.

The event featured heartfelt remarks and tributes from colleagues from across the JGS Lifecare system of care, family members of residents, as well as personal friends.

“Rabbi Jacobson radiates empathy and compassion and provides strength and hope. She is responsible for the spiritual well-being of residents of all faiths,” said Susan Kimball Halpern, director of Development, noting that Jacobson was recognized by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News as a Healthcare Hero in 2020 for her response during the COVID pandemic. “Our heroes are people we look up to and admire for their extraordinary actions and achievements. They are people we wish to emulate. Devorah, your countless acts of caring and loving kindness, your concern for others, and your efforts seeking justice for all have been inspirational.”

Halpern also announced the naming of the Rabbi Devorah Jacobson Discretionary Fund at JGS Lifecare, which will serve as a lasting legacy of the spiritual guidance and support Jacobson provided over the past 23 years to so many in the community.

Jacobson shared moving reflections about her retirement and the tapestry of connections and friendships she’d woven during her time at JGS Lifecare, and the difficulty of saying goodbye. She offered her heartfelt gratitude to everyone who is part of the JGS Lifecare family, including staff members, residents, families, board members, volunteers, and clergy from other faiths. She spoke about the honor and privilege of collaborating with them and learning from them as she served the spiritual and emotional needs of the JGS Lifecare community.

“I’ve seen over the years how so many who came to work here or join our board or became a volunteer or donor bring a certain set of values, including spiritual values, and know what the difference is between coming to work and coming to serve others,” she said. “You seem to stay, and stay connected, because something about this place — including its unique history as a not-for-profit institution based in Jewish values and serving all faiths — feeds your souls and brings out your gifts.”