With deep love and respect, we honor the remarkable life of Rabbi Hirshel L. Jaffe—known to many as The Running Rabbi—who passed away peacefully in hospice care on September 11, 2025, at the age of 89. Born March 23, 1936, Rabbi Jaffe lived a life of resilience, courage, faith, and service that touched countless lives.

Image from Zoom of Rabbi Jaffe’s funeral service at Temple Beth Jacob on Sunday, September 14, 2025. Image credit: Sandy Mayer

His beloved wife Roselle shared words that capture his spirit: “Hirshel loved Isaiah’s Bible verse 40:31 and I know he is soaring on the wings of angels.” Rabbi Jaffe himself often reminded loved ones that he felt satisfied with his life—telling his brother, “I had a good run.”

That “run” was nothing short of extraordinary. A five-time cancer survivor, Hirshel never let adversity silence his hope or dim his light. Engraved on his ID bracelet were the words that defined him: NEVER GIVE UP. He carried that message across marathon finish lines, into hospital rooms as a prayerful friend, and even into some of the most dangerous places on earth.

At the height of the Iran hostage crisis, he traveled to Tehran to visit the 52 Americans held captive. His mission nearly cost him his freedom, yet his bravery became the subject of a BBC documentary. When the hostages were freed, President Ronald Reagan invited him to welcome them home at the White House Rose Garden, where he received the Award of Courage. Later, President Bill Clinton invited him to speak at the Presidential Prayer Weekend, where he urged world leaders: “Let us bridge the gulf between us.”

Through his book Why Not Me? Searching for God When We Suffer, and an inspirational website followed by millions, Rabbi Jaffe brought comfort and hope to those facing illness and adversity. His voice was steady, his faith unshakable, and his compassion boundless.

Beyond the world stage, Rabbi Jaffe’s greatest joys were found in his family. He is survived by his devoted wife Roselle; his children Evan & Nina Freund, Ledra & Noam Solomon, and April & Azur Moulaert; and his cherished grandchildren Jordan, Justin, Toby, Milo, Aurora, and Athena.

He will be profoundly missed—but his legacy of courage, faith, and unyielding hope will live on in all who were blessed to know him.

May his memory forever be a blessing. ✨

Here’s Rabbi Jaffe discussing his memoir, Why (Not) Me? Searching for God When We Suffer at our first iPub Cloud Townhall Meeting: