A Neighbors Tribute: The Stone Legacy

by Pinchas Mikhli

Recently, The Commentator published an article listing the top ten Jews of the past century. Though I hold the utmost respect for those mentioned, I feel that one man in particular was overlooked: Irving J. Stone. Sometimes it's only after the passing of such a great man that we realize the impact he has made. Insofar as Jewish education is concerned, there was no person more influential in its establishment.

Rabbi Norman Lamm, called him a "Gentle Giant" at his levaya. He was a giant in his actions, yet gentle in their execution. The Stone Chumash and Stone Beit Midrash Program notwithstanding, many Jews may have probably never heard of Irving Stone, but most have no doubt been affected by him. Many would not be religious today had it not been for his many wonderful deeds.

As a native Clevelander, I have known of Irving Stone for all my life. Even though I met him personally only a handful of times, I feel as though I have lost a father and a teacher. The local day school, the Hebrew Academy of Cleveland, was only made possible by his generosity. He donated a tremendous amount of funds to take the school out of the red every year. It is also because of his advocacy, that Jewish foundations throughout the country now fund local Jewish schools. He recognized the importance of Jewish education and did everything in his power to make sure Jewish youth would have their opportunity to learn.

Irving Stone was the cornerstone in maintaining Yiddishkite. He also had a deep devotion

for a Jewish state, giving much support toward Israeli Bonds. Understanding the need for kiruv, NCSY is forever grateful to him for the financial provisions that made its work possible. Closest to his heart though, is his support of Yeshiva University. He has always stood as one of the top benefactors of our institution, providing funds to start the Stone Beit Midrash Program, which without his support would not have existed. This man has a legacy that will live forever, and we carry that legacy. Each and every one of us owes much gratitude towards this tzaddik. We have all benefited from his help, either directly or indirectly. It is our responsibility to make sure that Yiddishkite and Jewish education continue to flourish from the many many seeds this man has planted throughout the world.